As the Dallas Mavericks welcome their top draft pick, Cooper Flagg, to the NBA, the spotlight is not just on the young athlete but also on his mother, Kelly Flagg. Known for her unique courtside habits, Kelly’s game day rituals have become an integral part of the family’s basketball journey. Far from being a passive spectator, she embodies the spirit of a dedicated supporter, ensuring that her son’s ascent in the sport is accompanied by her unwavering presence.
Game day for Kelly is steeped in tradition and superstition. During Cooper’s years at Montverde Academy and later at Duke University, she insisted on sitting in the same seat for every game. “They put us in the same seats for the first few games, and then they moved us, and Cooper didn’t have his best game. I said, ‘Don’t ever do that again. Put me back,'” she recalled. This insistence on her preferred spot has paid off, as the school made sure to reserve it for her thereafter. As the Flagg family transitions to Dallas, Kelly is hopeful that her new seat at the American Airlines Center will bring similar luck.
The Flagg family is no stranger to the world of sports. With three sons—Cooper, Ace, and Hunter—Kelly and her husband Ralph, both former basketball players, have cultivated a household where athletics thrive. Each son has carved his path in sports; Ace is set to play for the University of Maine this fall, while Hunter, whom Kelly affectionately calls a “retired athlete,” has also made his mark in athletics. This diverse athletic background has allowed Kelly and Ralph to emphasize the importance of individual growth within their family dynamic. “I’ve always been very intentional about parenting them as individual people who just happen to be born at the same time,” Kelly explained.
The move from Florida to Dallas has been a significant transition for the Flaggs. Driven by Cooper’s NBA debut, the family has faced the challenges of relocating, which Kelly admits has been demanding. She credits her partnership with Dr. Scholl’s for helping her cope with the physical demands of the move, saying, “If it wasn’t for the insoles, I would not have survived the day.” Despite the upheaval, Kelly remains steadfast in her support for all her children’s aspirations. She describes both Cooper and Ace as highly driven, although their approaches to competition differ significantly. “Their personalities are also very different, even though they’re both driven when it comes to sports,” she noted.
Cooper’s rapid ascent to the NBA is a testament to his dedication and hard work. He completed extra coursework to graduate high school early, maintaining an impressive 4.2 GPA while balancing his academic and athletic responsibilities. This commitment has positioned him well for a successful career in professional basketball.
As Cooper embarks on his rookie season, the Flagg family’s approach remains consistent. While Kelly’s superstitions may intrigue fans, they are part of a broader tradition of support and encouragement that has guided the family through years of competition. Whether in Maine or Texas, the Flaggs are determined to uphold the routines that have shaped their journey. Kelly’s focus on family unity and individual encouragement continues to play a central role as Cooper steps onto the NBA stage.
As the Mavericks prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on Cooper Flagg and his performance on the court. With his mother’s steadfast support and unique game day rituals, there’s no doubt that he will carry the Flagg family legacy forward in the NBA.