Interviewer: “Cooper, you’ve been a rising star in basketball, with your impressive skills on the court and your bright future ahead of you. But today, I want to dive a little deeper. You’ve mentioned before the impact your parents have had on your journey. Could you share with us what they’ve sacrificed for you to get to where you are now?”
Cooper Flagg: “You know, it’s hard to put into words because it’s so much more than what people see on the surface. My parents… they’ve given up so much for me. It’s not just about the basketball equipment, the travel, or the coaching. It’s their time, their energy, and honestly, their dreams. I’ve seen my mom work two jobs, stay up late to make sure we had what we needed. She was always there, making sure I stayed grounded. And my dad… he’s been my rock, always there, pushing me but also loving me unconditionally. There were times when I know they struggled, but they never showed it.”
Interviewer: “That sounds incredibly moving. It seems like your bond with your father is especially strong. Can you talk about that relationship and how it’s influenced your growth as a player and a person?”
Cooper Flagg: (Tears begin to form as his voice cracks slightly) “Yeah, my dad and I… we’ve always been so close. He’s not just my father, but my coach, my mentor, and my best friend. I can’t tell you how many nights we spent together in the gym, just the two of us. He’d be there, helping me with drills, pushing me to be better, but also teaching me life lessons—about respect, hard work, and being kind to people. We’ve had some really tough moments, like when things didn’t go as planned, and he would always be there, telling me not to give up. He has this way of making me believe in myself, even when I doubted everything.”
Interviewer: “It sounds like he’s had a tremendous influence on your mindset. How has his guidance shaped the way you approach the game and the challenges you face?”
Cooper Flagg: “It’s everything. My dad always tells me, ‘You can’t control everything, but you can control how hard you work and the attitude you bring every day.’ That mindset is ingrained in me now. It’s not just about talent; it’s about the heart you put into everything you do. I know that no matter where my career takes me, I’ll always carry that with me. And whenever I’m feeling down or uncertain, I think about the sacrifices they made. It reminds me that every challenge is just another step to get closer to my goals.”
Interviewer: “That’s such a powerful perspective. It’s clear that your parents have been integral in shaping you—not just as an athlete, but as a person. What would you say to them, now, looking back on everything they’ve done for you?”
Cooper Flagg: “I… I don’t even have the words. I know I can never repay them for everything they’ve done. They believed in me before I even knew what I was capable of. If I can be half the parent they are, I’ll be doing okay. I just want them to know that everything I do, every success I have, it’s because of them. I’m so grateful for them. They’ve given me the chance to chase my dreams, and I won’t let them down.”
Interviewer: “Cooper, thank you for sharing that with us. Your story is truly inspiring, and the bond you have with your parents is one that will stay with you forever. Best of luck in everything you do—you’ve already made them so proud.”
Cooper Flagg: “Thank you. I’ll keep working hard, for them and for myself.”