Cooper Flagg of the Duke Blue Devils men’s basketball team has signed a $50 million endorsement deal and made a historic donation of $25 million to cancer patients, according to an ESPN report.

In an era where name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals have transformed the landscape of college athletics, Cooper Flagg has not only made headlines — he has made history. The Duke Blue Devils’ sensational freshman forward has reportedly signed a staggering $50 million endorsement deal, according to ESPN. Yet, it’s what he did next that’s sending shockwaves across the sports and philanthropic worlds.

Flagg, 17, turned around and donated half of his earnings — a jaw-dropping $25 million — to support cancer patients and research initiatives. In doing so, he becomes the youngest athlete in American sports history to make such a generous charitable contribution, and quite possibly the first to pledge half of an NIL fortune toward a cause so personal and profound.

The basketball phenom, widely projected as the next great NBA superstar, has now established himself as more than just a generational athlete. With this monumental gesture, he’s shaping his legacy off the court just as powerfully as he dominates on it.

The Endorsement That Changed Everything

The $50 million NIL deal, reportedly brokered by Flagg’s representation in partnership with multiple major brands, reflects not only his immense marketability but also the belief that he could be a transcendent force in basketball. Endorsement details remain tightly under wraps, but early reports suggest a collaboration with a global sports apparel giant — likely Nike — along with tech firms and beverage brands looking to tie their names to the rising star.

ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski described the agreement as “unprecedented in college basketball” and noted that the deal includes performance bonuses, equity in a startup health-tech company, and licensing rights for Flagg’s signature logo and apparel line.

Flagg’s market value has skyrocketed ever since he reclassified to join the 2024 class and committed to Duke, a program synonymous with NBA talent and college basketball royalty. But no one expected this kind of payday before he ever played a minute of collegiate ball.

“This is not just the biggest NIL deal in history — it’s one of the most impactful,” said Darren Rovell, a sports business analyst. “Cooper Flagg just set the new standard. But more importantly, his actions have shown maturity, leadership, and compassion well beyond his years.”

A Gift from the Heart

Shortly after the deal was finalized, Flagg and his family released a joint statement announcing the $25 million donation to cancer-related causes — including patient care, pediatric oncology research, and financial support for families struggling with medical expenses.

“This is something deeply personal to me and my family,” Flagg said in the statement. “Cancer has touched our lives, as it has for so many others. I’ve been blessed with an incredible opportunity, and I want to use it to help people who are going through the hardest battle of their lives.”

The gift will be distributed through a new foundation, “The Flagg Foundation for Hope,” which will partner with hospitals such as Duke Cancer Institute, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and local treatment centers in his home state of Maine.

His donation is already being described as “historic” by charity experts, who say it’s among the largest ever made by a teenager — let alone an active college athlete.

“Words can’t describe the hope this will bring to families in treatment rooms across the country,” said Dr. Melanie Sanders, director of pediatric oncology at Duke Health. “Cooper Flagg’s generosity has the power to change thousands of lives.”

A Symbol of the New NIL Era

In the wake of this announcement, college athletes, analysts, and fans are reflecting on the profound evolution of amateur athletics under NIL rules. What was once an uncertain frontier has quickly become fertile ground for wealth, influence, and social impact — and Flagg is at the forefront.

While high-profile athletes like Bronny James, Livvy Dunne, and Shedeur Sanders have become NIL icons in their own right, Flagg’s actions demonstrate that the platform can be used for a much greater purpose than personal gain.

“He just flipped the script,” said Jay Bilas, ESPN analyst and Duke alum. “This isn’t just about what Cooper can do with the ball in his hands. It’s about who he is when no one is watching — when the cameras are off. This is what leadership looks like.”

Indeed, leadership is not a new concept for Flagg, who has long been praised for his poise and maturity. On the court, he’s a 6-foot-9 forward with the IQ of a seasoned veteran. Off the court, he carries himself with humility and grace that belies his age.

The Journey to Stardom

Born in Newport, Maine, Flagg’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric. He first turned national heads in 2022, when he led the U.S. to gold at the FIBA U17 World Cup and earned All-Tournament Team honors. His high school dominance at Montverde Academy in Florida — a program known for producing elite NBA talent — only fueled the hype.

By the time he committed to Duke in October 2023, Flagg was already being discussed in the same breath as Kevin Durant, Jayson Tatum, and LeBron James. He reclassified to the 2024 class and immediately became the face of Jon Scheyer’s program, ushering in a new era of Blue Devils basketball.

With breathtaking athleticism, a refined jumper, and tenacious defense, Flagg is expected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. NBA scouts already describe him as a future All-Star with franchise-altering potential.

“He’s the kind of player you build around,” said one anonymous GM. “But he’s also the kind of person you want representing your franchise.”

A Community’s Hero

Back in Maine, where Flagg’s story began, the impact of his donation is being felt deeply. Hospitals, schools, and families are already reaching out to express their gratitude, and local leaders are preparing events to honor his contribution.

“Cooper has always made us proud on the court,” said Jason Pellerin, Flagg’s former AAU coach. “But what he did today — that’s beyond basketball. That’s legacy.”

The town of Newport is reportedly organizing a “Flagg Day” to celebrate their hometown hero. And across social media, tributes are pouring in from NBA players, celebrities, and everyday fans.

Kevin Durant tweeted: “Respect to Cooper Flagg. That’s a leader right there.”

Actress and cancer survivor Sofia Vergara posted: “So touched by Cooper Flagg’s gift to cancer patients. Thank you for using your platform to help others.”

Even President Joe Biden weighed in, commending Flagg for “leading with empathy, courage, and generosity at such a young age.”

A Legacy in the Making

The Flagg Foundation has already pledged to begin construction on a new pediatric cancer wing at Duke Children’s Hospital, with plans for expansions to other facilities in the coming years. A scholarship fund will also be created to help children who have survived cancer afford college.

Meanwhile, Flagg remains focused on what’s ahead — a challenging season at Duke, the NBA Draft, and now, his growing role as a public figure and philanthropist.

“I’m still just a kid from Maine who loves to hoop,” Flagg said in a recent interview. “I’ve been given so much. I just want to give something back.”

That simple, humble mindset may be what truly sets Cooper Flagg apart. In a world obsessed with stats, rankings, and brand deals, Flagg is reminding everyone that greatness comes in many forms — and that the heart behind the player matters just as much as the points on the scoreboard.

What’s Next for Cooper Flagg?

On the court, Flagg is preparing for his highly anticipated debut with the Blue Devils in the 2025 season. Fans are already lining up for tickets, and Duke’s home games are expected to be among the most electric in recent history.

Coach Jon Scheyer called him “the most complete freshman I’ve ever seen,” and insiders believe Flagg could help deliver a national title to Durham.

Off the court, Flagg plans to remain heavily involved in his foundation’s work. He’ll be meeting with patients, visiting hospitals, and advocating for cancer research legislation.

“We’re just getting started,” Flagg said. “There’s so much more we can do.”

In an age where athletes are constantly scrutinized for their decisions, Cooper Flagg has made a choice that no one saw coming — and everyone can respect. His $25 million donation, born out of compassion and courage, may not win a championship, but it will save lives, bring hope, and inspire millions.

At just 17, Cooper Flagg has already become a symbol of what is possible when talent meets purpose.

And in doing so, he’s shown that true greatness goes far beyond the game.