Cooper Flagg’s Mother Kelly Emerges as the Donna Kelce of NCAA Basketball
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Kelly Flagg is stepping into the spotlight, following in the footsteps of Donna Kelce. Before NFL player Jason Kelce retired, his mother Donna, aged 72, gained recognition for her unwavering support for Jason and his brother, Travis, even when they played for different teams. Donna was known for attending games in multiple cities on the same day, donning a split jersey to show her allegiance. Now, Kelly, the mother of Duke basketball player Cooper Flagg and his twin brother Ace, who plays for her alma mater, the University of Maine, is stepping up to support her sons’ basketball dreams.
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Kelly shared about her partnership with Dr. Scholl’s, highlighting the need for extra support during the intense college basketball season. Juggling between her sons’ games, Kelly found herself travelling from one city to another, sometimes attending multiple games in a single day. Reflecting on a particularly challenging game day this season, she narrated how she flew from Atlanta to attend Cooper’s game at Georgia Tech in the morning, hopped on a flight back to Greensboro immediately after the game to catch Ace’s game that same night, all with the essential support of Dr. Scholl’s.
Kelly’s adept skills in managing a jam-packed basketball season have garnered admiration from other basketball moms, who seek her advice on scheduling and planning. She emphasised the importance of early planning, revealing how she meticulously mapped out the entire season’s games months in advance to navigate conflicting schedules between Cooper and Ace. Her proactive approach ensured she could be present at crucial games, showcasing her dedication as a supportive basketball mom.
The support system plays a pivotal role in Kelly’s ability to be present for her sons during their games. She expressed gratitude for her parents, who have been by her side throughout the season, stepping in when conflicts arose. Recounting a heart-racing moment when she and her father rushed to attend Cooper’s game at Georgia Tech while her husband and mother supported Ace, Kelly acknowledged the significance of having a strong support network to rely on during the demanding basketball season.
As Cooper and the Duke Blue Devils prepare to face the Mount Saint Mary’s Mountaineers in the NCAA Tournament, commonly known as March Madness, on Friday, March 21 at 2:50 p.m. ET, Kelly’s unwavering commitment and dedication as a basketball mom continue to shine through. Her ability to navigate the challenges of supporting twin sons playing for different universities epitomises the essence of a devoted sports parent, embodying the spirit of resilience and unwavering support in the face of demanding schedules and logistical challenges.
In a world where balancing multiple commitments is a norm, Kelly’s story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices and determination required to support loved ones pursuing their dreams. Her journey as a supportive basketball mom reflects the dedication and unwavering love that underpins the remarkable achievements of student-athletes like Cooper and Ace. As the basketball season unfolds, Kelly’s role as the Donna Kelce of NCAA Basketball continues to inspire and resonate with sports enthusiasts and parents alike, showcasing the profound impact of familial support in nurturing athletic talent and fostering success on and off the court.