Duke's Cooper Flagg, Projected Top Pick in 2025 NBA Draft, Signs Shoe Deal with New Balance

Before starting his freshman year at Duke, Cooper Flagg is already making waves with a new endorsement deal.

The highly anticipated 2025 NBA Draft prospect has signed a multi-year shoe contract with New Balance, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski. The deal includes one NIL year during Flagg's college career, followed by multiple seasons of compensation as he transitions to the NBA, as reported by Boardroom.

Flagg has a personal connection to New Balance, as he grew up in Newport, Maine, before moving to Montverde, Florida, to attend Montverde Academy. New Balance operates a manufacturing facility in Skowhegan, Maine, just 25 miles from Flagg's hometown.

"I grew up wearing New Balance, and I appreciate their authentic connection to my community,” Flagg said in a statement, via Boardroom. “The focus and growth of the brand in basketball and our shared values and history drew me in.”

At 17, Flagg shared with Wojnarowski that his mother frequently visited New Balance tent sales for back-to-school shopping during his childhood, establishing a deep-rooted connection with the brand.

Flagg joins New Balance's basketball roster, which includes players such as Kawhi Leonard, Tyrese Maxey, Jamal Murray, and Cameron Brink. The company also has endorsements with tennis star Coco Gauff and track and field athlete Quincy Wilson.

During his senior year, the 6-foot-9 Flagg averaged 16.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 3.7 steals, and 3.7 blocks per game for Montverde Academy, leading the team to a perfect 34–0 record and a national title. He earned Gatorade National Player of the Year, Mr. Basketball USA, and Naismith Prep Player of the Year honors.

Flagg reclassified from the 2025 class to 2024, making him eligible for the 2025 NBA Draft, as he will turn 18 during his freshman year. He committed to Duke in October 2023 after being heavily recruited by UConn, Kansas, and Kentucky.

Flagg's performance during Team USA's pre-Olympic training camp in Las Vegas further showcased his talent. He was the only college player and teenager invited to join the Select Team, heightening expectations for his upcoming freshman season at Duke and his future in the NBA.