Maine Honors Cooper Flagg Ahead of NBA Draft

Maine Governor Janet Mills proclaimed June 25, 2025, as 'Cooper Flagg Day' to honor Newport native Cooper Flagg ahead of his expected selection as the No. 1 pick in the NBA Draft by the Dallas Mavericks. Flagg gained national attention by leading Nokomis Regional High School to its first state title as a freshman and, in his lone season at Duke, averaged 19.2 points and 7.5 rebounds, earning major collegiate honors. He was also named to the USA Basketball Men’s Select Team and signed endorsement deals with New Balance and Gatorade before playing a college game. Flagg is poised to become the first Maine-born player ever drafted No. 1 overall, joining only two other Mainers in NBA history. The state and New Balance are celebrating his achievements, with New Balance raising flags at its Maine facilities. Flagg credits his family's basketball background and his mother's encouragement, aiming to inspire Maine youth to pursue their dreams through perseverance.