Duke Universityโs basketball sensation Cooper Flagg not only dominated on the court during the 2024-25 season but also made waves off the hardwood, reportedly earning a staggering $28 million through Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. Flaggโs freshman campaign saw him become the National Player of the Year while leading Duke to a Final Four appearance, cementing his status as the nationโs best college basketball player and a future NBA star.
In an interview with Bob Costas, sports journalist Howard Bryant revealed that Flaggโs NIL income came from two major endorsements: a $13 million deal with New Balance and a $15 million agreement with Fanatics. The precise terms of these contracts remain unclear, sparking speculation about whether the total payout represents a single yearโs earnings or spans multiple years. Regardless, the figure underscores the rapidly growing influence of NIL opportunities in collegiate sports.
The 18-year-old phenomโs success wasnโt confined to financial achievements. Flaggโs skill, versatility, and leadership on the court propelled Duke deep into the NCAA tournament, with his performance solidifying his status as the consensus No. 1 pick in the upcoming 2025 NBA Draft. Industry analysts project that Flagg will sign a rookie contract worth approximately $62 million over four years, with additional endorsements likely to follow.
Flaggโs NIL earnings highlight a new era in college athletics, where top players can secure life-changing wealth before turning professional. His case also emphasizes the allure of elite programs like Duke, which provide athletes with both the platform and exposure to attract high-value endorsements.
Despite the substantial financial success, Flaggโs collegiate journey ended bittersweetly, as Duke fell in the national semifinal. Yet his achievements on and off the court make him one of the most celebrated college athletes of the NIL era.
Flagg recently signed with CAA Basketball for professional representation, joining a star-studded roster of NBA talent, including Devin Booker and Karl-Anthony Towns. As he prepares for the next chapter in the NBA, one thing is clear: Cooper Flaggโs future is as bright as his historic year at Duke.
In an era where college athletes are beginning to reap the rewards of their marketability, Flaggโs story sets a new standard, showing how talent and opportunity can intersect to create generational wealth.
