How Much Did Cooper Flagg Make in NIL During His Year at Duke?
Cooper Flagg is not just a name in men’s college basketball; he represents a new era of athletes capitalizing on their name, image, and likeness (NIL). As one of the sport’s brightest stars and a big name in the NIL discussion, you might be wondering: How much money did Flagg actually make during his one transformative year at Duke?
A Skyrocketing Value: Flagg’s NIL Earnings
Breaking Down the Numbers
During his time at Duke, Cooper Flagg secured at least $28 million through NIL agreements, a staggering figure that positions him among the most valuable collegiate athletes to date. This was revealed by longtime journalist Howard Bryant during a discussion with Bob Costas.
The bulk of those earnings stem from lucrative contracts with industry giants:
- New Balance: $13 million
- Fanatics: $15 million
While the exact terms may still be a mystery—are these annual figures or total values?—it’s evident that Flagg is laughing all the way to the bank.
Not Just Numbers: The Influencer Impact
Living the Brand
When Flagg inked his deal with New Balance in August 2024, it marked a significant moment. Not only was he featured in commercials alongside prominent athletes like Kawhi Leonard and Tyrese Maxey, but he was also elevated to the status of one of the brand’s top endorsers. For further details, you can check out this ESPN report.
As part of his deal with Fanatics, Flagg signed an exclusive multi-year contract that included his inaugural "rookie" card from the 2025 Bowman University Chrome set. This move demonstrates how brands are leveraging his rising star power for mutual benefit.
Beyond the Big Two: Flagg’s Additional Ventures
Diverse Portfolio
Flagg didn’t stop at just New Balance and Fanatics; he had a strategic approach to NIL deals. He became the first men’s college basketball player to team up with Gatorade, which is no small feat. He also secured partnerships with AT&T, Cort Furniture, and The NIL Store.
While the exact values of these deals remain undisclosed, adding them to his existing portfolio likely pushes Flagg’s NIL earnings well beyond the $28 million mark.
An Annual Outlook: Competitive Earnings
Flagg’s Market Demand
Despite the staggering total, it’s essential to understand that Flagg’s annual earning potential for the 2024-25 season was estimated at $4.3 million, placing him second among college athletes, right behind Texas quarterback Arch Manning, who boasts an impressive $6.6 million.
Balling on the Court: Flagg’s Performance at Duke
A Stellar Year
Flagg didn’t just capitalize on his marketing opportunities; he also delivered on the court. Averaging 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and impressive shooting metrics of 48.1% from the field and 38.5% from three-point range, he earned every accolade imaginable—including all major national player of the year awards. His stellar performance led Duke to the Final Four, where they faced tough competition from Houston.
What Lies Ahead: The NBA Dream
Draft Day Expectations
After a blockbuster year at Duke, Flagg declared for the 2025 NBA Draft, where he is a consensus No. 1 overall pick candidate. Should he be selected first, his rookie contract is expected to yield a staggering $62.7 million over four years, setting the stage for even greater financial success.
Conclusion: A New Standard in College Athletics
In conclusion, Cooper Flagg’s journey at Duke encapsulates the transformational landscape of NIL in college sports. His impressive earnings, performance, and brand partnerships are not just individual accomplishments; they revolutionize the economics around student-athletes, setting new benchmarks for future prospects.
As Flagg prepares to enter the NBA, fans and analysts alike eagerly await to see how he continues to navigate both the court and the business landscape. Want more stories delivered right to your inbox? Check out FOX Sports for the latest updates!
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