There’s no doubt that former Duke star Cooper Flagg is a generational talent, and having a kid who’s going as the No.1 overall pick is no easy task.
Flagg’s mom, Kelly, does a great job of showcasing her love for her exceptional son, while also keeping him grounded and real.
When Cooper’s name was announced during the 2025 NBA Draft, he celebrated the moment by sharing a warm hug with his mom.
Kelly, who wore a black dress to the event, hugged her son back, and said:
“I’m so proud of you… I love you so much… You are sweaty.”
Before the draft, Cooper also opened up about looking forward to sharing the moment with his family in a conversation with Today’s Craig Melvin.
“I think just sharing this moment with my family,” Flagg said. “I think it’s a dream come true for all of them and me as well, and then my friends, as well.”
He continued:
“Just going through this moment with them will be very surreal and just such a good feeling. I know my mom’s going to be bawling her eyes out whenever my name gets called. I think my oldest brother will probably cry, too.”
“I’m so proud of you… I love you so much… You are sweaty.”
Cooper Flagg’s mom kept it real with him after being drafted #1 overall 🤣🤣 pic.twitter.com/jBS51cOLUK
— NBA (@NBA) June 26, 2025
When Cooper Flagg’s Mom Shared Why He Declined To Go Home for the Holidays
Despite spending just one season at Duke and in college, Cooper Flagg has made the most of his time there, be it building strong relationships with his teammates and head coach or proving himself on the court.
During an interview with The Athletic, Cooper’s mom shared how the Duke star refused to come home during the holidays and instead decided to stay back and continue spending time with his teammates that included Khaman Maluach and Tyrese Proctor along with HC Jon Scheyer.
“My mom heart was a little bit bruised about (Cooper not coming home). But then, I was also super happy and proud of the fact that he loves it here, and he’s having the best time being a college kid. I think, because it’s a short opportunity, he’s trying to get the most out of it.”
Flagg completed his Duke journey with an average of 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 steals and 1.4 blocks during the 2024-25 season.
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