The Remarkable Rise of Cooper Flagg: Exploring His Net Worth and NIL Deals
Cooper Flagg, the sensational freshman star for the Duke Blue Devils, isn’t just capturing hearts with his jaw-dropping basketball skills; he’s also making waves in the financial realm thanks to the revolutionary world of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. At a mere 18 years old, this Newport, Maine native is transforming his on-court talent into a lucrative cash flow, raising the question on everyone’s mind: How much is Cooper Flagg really earning from his NIL ventures?
A Glimpse into Flagg’s Financial Landscape
According to On3, as of March 2025, Flagg’s NIL valuation stands at an impressive $4.8 million, positioning him as the highest-earning college basketball player and the sixth overall among NCAA athletes. This is a massive increase from the $2.6 million he was estimated to earn before even stepping onto the court for Duke, as reported by On3 in October 2024.
Cooper Flagg’s Impressive NIL Portfolio
The buzz around Flagg’s earnings can be attributed to his strategic partnerships with major brands. His list of endorsements is nothing short of impressive:
In fall 2024, he signed a significant deal with Gatorade. Reflecting on this partnership, Flagg stated, “This has been a big year for me on and off the court, and Gatorade has been there the whole way.”
Then, in August 2024, he joined forces with New Balance, which resonated deeply with him due to the brand’s roots near his hometown. Flagg expressed the connection, saying, “The connection with New Balance as a family company means a lot to me.”
Moreover, Flagg secured a multi-year contract with Fanatics in January 2025, which included the release of his own Topps Bowman card—a nod to his rising stardom.
- Additional partnerships with brands like Cort Furniture and The NIL Store’s "Hometown Hero" collection further fuel his growing wealth.
Understanding the Financial Figures Behind the Fame
How much is Cooper Flagg making per deal? While the specifics of his agreements remain confidential—NIL deals often are—industry experts speculate that his annual earnings could be in the multi-million dollar range. “In my opinion, the kid could make a couple million dollars a year,” noted sports business specialist Patrick White in an interview with Interbasket back in October 2024.
With energizing stats like averaging 19.7 points per game and recently being named ACC Player of the Year by College Football Network, brands are keen to capitalize on Flagg’s soaring popularity, especially with his anticipated status as the No. 1 pick in the upcoming 2025 NBA Draft.
Flagg’s Financial Future: What Lies Ahead?
The excitement surrounding March Madness is expected to bring even more visibility to Cooper Flagg, thanks to his representation by CAA. With expectations high, fans and analysts alike are buzzing with the potential for more lucrative deals as his brand continues to expand. One fan recently tweeted, “Flagg’s NIL is 5x Auburn’s roster—insane,” highlighting the massive buzz around his financial standing compared to other teams.
As Flagg navigates his freshman year, it’s clear that this rising star is not only dominating the courts but also mastering the art of turning fame into fortune. With a net worth destined to rise even further, Cooper Flagg is on a thrilling path of both athletic and financial success—and this is just the beginning.
For more insights into the world of college athletics and NIL deals, check out Sporting News and On3.
By exploring Cooper Flagg’s financial landscape, it’s evident that with talent, strategic partnerships, and the changing tides of college sports, this young athlete is not just a player to watch but also a force to be reckoned with in the financial arena.
