Duke Basketball Star Cooper Flagg on the Road to Recovery After Ankle Injury
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Duke basketball star Cooper Flagg is gearing up for the upcoming 2025 March Madness tournament after a recent ankle injury has put him on the sidelines. The 18-year-old freshman phenom sustained the injury during the ACC tournament quarterfinal against Georgia Tech on March 13, causing him to miss Duke’s final two games. However, his mother, Kelly Bowman Flagg, a former basketball player at the University of Maine, has shared an exclusive update with PEOPLE on Cooper’s progress and how he’s coping with the setback.
In an interview with PEOPLE, Kelly revealed that Cooper is “feeling great” and is determined to make a comeback in time for March Madness. Recounting the moment of her son’s injury, Kelly expressed her initial shock and concern, saying, “I was like, ‘Oh no, how can this be happening now?'” Despite this setback, Kelly emphasised that Cooper had been relatively injury-free throughout the season, aside from minor incidents like getting poked in the eye and experiencing cramping.
Reflecting on Cooper’s experience of sitting out games for the first time in his career, Kelly acknowledged the emotional toll it took on him. She shared, “I know it was really hard for him to feel helpless and not be out there with his team.” However, she also highlighted the positive outcome of his absence, citing the opportunity it provided for other players to step up and gain confidence in their performance.
As a busy mother of three, Kelly plays a supportive role both on and off the court for her sons, including Cooper and his twin brother Ace, who plays for her alma mater, the University of Maine. She emphasised the importance of offering reassurance and love during challenging times, noting the role that Dr. Scholl’s products play in supporting her active lifestyle and attending her sons’ games across different locations.
Kelly shared a glimpse into her hectic schedule, recounting a day where she flew from one game venue to another to support both her sons in their respective matches. From flying to Atlanta in the morning to watch Cooper play before rushing off to see Ace’s game, Kelly highlighted the role of Dr. Scholl’s in keeping her comfortable and agile throughout her busy day of travel and game attendance.
March Madness holds a special significance for Kelly as a supportive mother of college basketball players, describing moms in this role as “the unsung heroes” of the tournament. She underlined the significance of products like Dr. Scholl’s for athletes and busy parents alike, emphasising their importance in providing support and comfort during long days of travel and sports events.
For Cooper Flagg, the road to recovery and readiness for March Madness is a journey supported by his family and team. As he works towards regaining his strength and returning to the court, the support and love from his mother and family remain constant sources of motivation. With the tournament fast approaching, Cooper’s determination to overcome his injury and contribute to his team’s success shines through, setting the stage for a compelling comeback story in the world of college basketball.