The Flagg Brothers: Cooper and Ace — A Tale of Twin Talents

In the world of basketball, few sibling duos have garnered as much attention as Cooper and Ace Flagg. While Cooper has captured national headlines as a projected No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, his twin brother, Ace, is carving out his own path in the sport. Their journey from the small town of Newport, Maine, to the national stage is a testament to their shared passion, individual talents, and the bond that ties them together.

Born in 2006 in Newport, Maine, Cooper and Ace Flagg were introduced to basketball at a young age. Their mother, Kelly (née Bowman), was a standout player at the University of Maine, where she served as team captain and led the Black Bears to their first NCAA tournament victory. Their father, Ralph Flagg, played NJCAA basketball at Eastern Maine Community College. This rich basketball heritage laid the foundation for the twins’ future in the sport .

The Flagg family experienced both joy and sorrow early on. Their older brother, Hunter, was born prematurely and faced significant health challenges. Tragically, Hunter’s twin brother, Ryder, passed away shortly after birth. Despite these hardships, Hunter overcame his early health battles and went on to play basketball at Nokomis Regional High School alongside Cooper and Ace. Today, Hunter is a junior at the University of Maine, studying sports management .

The Flagg brothers began their basketball journey at Nokomis Regional High School, where they quickly made a name for themselves. Cooper’s exceptional skills and versatility on the court earned him recognition as one of the top prospects in the nation. Ace, while not as widely known, showcased his own talents and potential.

Seeking to challenge themselves and compete at a higher level, the twins transferred to Montverde Academy in Florida, a renowned basketball powerhouse. At Montverde, Cooper’s game flourished, and he gained national attention. Ace, though less heralded, contributed to the team’s success and continued to develop his skills .

As their high school careers progressed, the twins began to chart different courses for their futures.

Cooper’s rise in the basketball world was meteoric. Recognized as the top recruit in the 2024 class, he reclassified to join Duke University a year early. At Duke, he made an immediate impact, earning All-American honors and the Naismith College Player of the Year award. His performances solidified his status as a top NBA prospect, and he was selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft by the Dallas Mavericks .

While Cooper was making headlines, Ace was quietly making his own decisions. After a season at Montverde Academy, Ace transferred to Greensboro Day School in North Carolina for his senior year. Despite receiving offers from several Division I programs, including West Virginia, George Washington, and Florida Gulf Coast, Ace chose to commit to the University of Maine, his mother’s alma mater. This decision was significant, as it represented a return to his roots and a chance to contribute to the Black Bears’ program .

While both brothers share a passion for basketball, their playing styles differ.

• Cooper Flagg: Standing at 6’9″, Cooper is known for his versatility, defensive prowess, and basketball IQ. He can play multiple positions and is particularly effective as a forward. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor makes him a unique talent.
• Ace Flagg: At 6’7″, Ace is a versatile forward who excels in defense, rebounding, and playmaking. His coach, Matt MacKenzie, describes him as a player who “puts his body on the line” and is adept at fundamental aspects like taking charges and setting screens .

Despite their different paths, the Flagg brothers share a deep bond. Their shared experiences growing up in Newport, playing together at Nokomis, and supporting each other’s journeys have strengthened their relationship. Cooper has expressed that his family’s support, especially from his mother, has been crucial in staying grounded amid his rising fame .

As Cooper embarks on his professional career with the Dallas Mavericks, Ace prepares to start his collegiate journey at the University of Maine. Both brothers are poised to make significant impacts in the basketball world, each in their own way. Their story is one of talent, determination, and the enduring power of family.

The Flagg brothers exemplify the diverse paths that can lead to success in basketball. While Cooper’s journey has been marked by national recognition and a swift ascent to the NBA, Ace’s path reflects a commitment to personal growth and returning to his roots. Together, they showcase the multifaceted nature of athletic achievement and the importance of family support in reaching one’s goals.