Cooper Flagg, Duke’s freshman phenom, has already established himself as one of the brightest prospects in college basketball. Not only has he lived up to his status as the No. 1 recruit in the 2024 class, but his actions off the court have also won him the admiration of many.
While his basketball skills have earned him attention, it’s his gesture following a game that caught the hearts of fans everywhere.
Cooper Flagg’s Heartwarming Moment With Little Fans
After Duke’s 83-54 victory over Syracuse, Flagg went beyond the game and touched the lives of a few fans. Despite it being an away game, the JMA Wireless Dome saw plenty of Blue Devils supporters, and Flagg made sure to acknowledge them. Among the fans was a young cancer survivor holding a sign with three boxes:
“Beat brain cancer,” “First Duke game,” and “Meet Cooper Flagg.” By the end of the night, all three wishes came true.
bigger than basketball @Cooper_Flagg FTW pic.twitter.com/nOsXM3caVg
— Duke Men’s Basketball (@DukeMBB) February 6, 2025
Flagg took time to meet the fans, sign autographs, and pose for pictures. His interaction with the young girl was particularly meaningful. It wasn’t just a regular meet-and-greet. It was a moment of connection with someone who had fought through tremendous personal challenges.
This gesture went viral, showcasing Flagg’s compassion for those who have faced adversity. Especially when compared to other players of his caliber who may not take the time for such encounters.
This was not the first time Flagg had shown his charitable side. In high school, he was involved in fundraising for childhood cancer through an exhibition game hosted by his AAU team. The event benefited the Donovan Kurt Memorial Cancer Fund, which assists families with medical expenses after a child is diagnosed with cancer.
Kurt, a close childhood friend of Flagg’s, passed away from brain cancer in 2022, making the cause even more personal for the young player.
Additionally, Flagg made a $10,000 donation to the Durham Ronald McDonald House, an organization close to his heart. Flagg’s parents had stayed at a Ronald McDonald House when his older brother, Hunter, was born and needed to be admitted to the NICU.
Duke basketball has long been involved in philanthropic activities, and Flagg fits perfectly into this culture. The program frequently visits Duke Children’s Hospital to brighten the day of young patients.
Flagg’s Impact on the Court
While Flagg’s off-court efforts have drawn attention, his play on the court has been nothing short of impressive. Through 22 games, Flagg has averaged 19.5 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game.
In the win against Syracuse, he contributed 11 points and five rebounds, even though it was one of his quieter games statistically. What stood out, however, was his ability to contribute in ways that didn’t show up in the box score.
Head coach Jon Scheyer noted how Flagg’s willingness to involve others is one of his key strengths. Scheyer said:
“You know, sometimes I get mad at [Flagg] because when we get some separation, he wants everybody else to step up.”
He also added: “But I think that’s part of what makes him special, too. And tonight, he had some great passes that didn’t even lead to assists, but it led to somebody else getting the shot.”
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In the game against Syracuse, five Duke players scored double figures, with Tyrese Proctor leading the way with 16 points. Cooper Flagg’s early days at Duke have shown that he is a complete player—one who excels on the court while also making a difference off it.
The Blue Devils’ next game against Clemson will offer another opportunity for Flagg to shine and further solidify his place as one of the top young stars in college basketball.
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