Mainers have been buzzing about Cooper Flagg for quite some time, but it's safe to say that the talented youngster is no longer a well-kept secret. Flagg has now emerged as "the next big thing," capturing the attention of fans, scouts, and even the official NBA Twitter account.

Hailing from the town of Newport, Flagg led his team, Maine United, to a resounding victory against a Pro Skills squad brimming with top-tier Division-I prospects yesterday. Flagg's jaw-dropping performance included a staggering 38 points, 16 rebounds, 11 blocks, and 6 assists, cementing his position at the head of the table.

Standing at an impressive 6 feet 8 inches, Flagg's junior year masterpiece showcased his versatility and command over the game. Not only did he shoot an impressive 14-for-24 from the floor, but he also showcased his ball-handling skills by bringing the ball up the court and creating scoring opportunities for his teammates.

This display was a part of the 2023 Nike EYBL Peach Jam Basketball Tournament. The prestigious tournament, which is being held in North Augusta, South Carolina from July 3rd to 9th, has been a staple event in the amateur basketball circuit for an astounding 27 years. It features the finest high school basketball players from across the United States and Canada, providing a platform for emerging talents to shine.

While Cooper Flagg's future remains uncertain in terms of which college he will ultimately choose to play for, one thing is crystal clear—the hype train for Flagg is barreling forward at full speed. 

Looking ahead, Cooper Flagg's trajectory may see him eligible for the NBA Draft as early as the 2025 class. As we eagerly follow his journey, it's worth exploring the legacy of Mainers who have already been drafted to the NBA. If you're interested in discovering more about those folks, you can find more information here.

In the meantime, basketball fans and enthusiasts across Maine are “united” in their excitement, eagerly anticipating each new chapter in the burgeoning career of our homegrown fella.

As the NBA said, get to know the name Cooper Flagg.

LOOK: 50 images of winning moments from sports history

Sometimes images are the best way to honor the figures we've lost. When tragedy swiftly reminds us that sports are far from the most consequential thing in life, we can still look back on an athlete's winning moment that felt larger than life, remaining grateful for their sacrifice on the court and bringing joy to millions.

Read on to explore the full collection of 50 images Stacker compiled showcasing various iconic winning moments in sports history. Covering achievements from a multitude of sports, these images represent stunning personal achievements, team championships, and athletic perseverance.

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