Duke’s Cooper Flagg, the 6-foot-9 freshman forward and one of the most highly anticipated players in college basketball this season, has just inked an NIL deal with Gatorade. This partnership makes Flagg the first college men’s basketball player ever to join Gatorade’s athlete roster, a significant milestone as the brand expands its support of collegiate athletes.
Flagg, known for his versatility, shot-blocking, and impressive skill set, will add a high-profile presence to the Blue Devils’ lineup this season. His partnership with Gatorade highlights his potential not only as an elite player but also as a marketable figure in the world of college sports. As Duke prepares to kick off the regular season, Flagg’s NIL deal sets the stage for a promising year, both on and off the court.
Cooper Flagg’s partnership with Gatorade marks a significant step in his journey, as the Duke freshman forward joins a roster filled with high-caliber athletes, including Caitlin Clark, Juju Watkins, Paige Bueckers, Shedeur Sanders, and former Duke standout Jayson Tatum. Flagg, recently named the 2024 Gatorade Men’s Player of the Year, expressed his excitement about joining such an iconic team, emphasizing how surreal it feels to be recognized alongside some of the sport’s biggest names.
Jeff Kearney, Gatorade’s global head of sports marketing, praised Flagg as “an incredible talent” with a promising future, noting that Gatorade is thrilled to support him as he begins his collegiate career. Flagg has already shown his potential in Duke’s preseason games, scoring 22 and nine points in the two exhibitions. Duke’s season opener against Maine on November 4 will be an especially meaningful debut, as Flagg will face his home-state team.
This deal with Gatorade is not only a testament to Flagg’s talent but also highlights the growing prominence of NIL partnerships for college athletes with major brands, reflecting his influence both on and off the court as he embarks on his NCAA journey.
