From Pea Picker to NBA Prospect
Before Cooper Flagg joined the Dallas Mavericks on a lucrative rookie contract worth $13.8 million for his first year, he engaged in a much simpler task: harvesting peas on Thunder Road Farm in Corinna, Maine. At just 11 years old, Flagg, along with his twin brother Ace and older brother Hunter, took on the job, earning $1 for every pound of peas they picked. This work ethic blossomed into a friendly competition among the brothers, as their mother, Kelly Flagg, recalled Cooper’s determination to out-earn his siblings.
“Cooper the pea picker was very competitive. He was incredibly focused and aggressive in his efforts,” Kelly reflected, highlighting how the boys’ morning sessions, which lasted three hours before the summer heat set in, became a testing ground for their ambition.
In the first week alone, Cooper managed to earn $100, prompting farm owners Charlie and Barb Peavey to take notice.
“Most kids treat it like a game, but Cooper was dedicated and serious about his work,” Barb Peavey stated, proud of his diligence.
The Peaveys operate a diverse farm, cropping strawberries, potatoes, corn, cucumbers, and pumpkins, employing 15 to 20 local youths each summer. Sitting on five-gallon buckets during pea harvesting not only taught Flagg about work ethic but also provided enjoyment and social time with friends. Reflecting on those days, he acknowledged the importance of early work experiences, stating,
“It helps you teach early about having a job. It was always fun to make a little money and hang out with your friends.”
Rising Star in Basketball
Fast forward to today, at 18 years old, Flagg stands at 6-foot-8, recognized as one of the most versatile prospects set to enter the NBA. His skills—the ability to shoot, pass, dribble, and defend—paired with an intense desire to win, have made him an exciting addition to the Mavericks. During his time at Duke University, Flagg recorded one of the most significant freshman seasons in NCAA history, ranking alongside stars like Zion Williamson and Anthony Davis in terms of impact.
The Mavericks were particularly taken with Flagg’s intangibles. General Manager Nico Harrison emphasized that discussions surrounding him frequently extend beyond his basketball prowess, focusing on his dedication and character, which are crucial to a team’s culture.
After a year of attending high school in Maine, Flagg moved to Montverde Academy in Florida, a renowned basketball prep school, where he continued to develop his skills. He decided to reclassify in August 2023, allowing him to enter college basketball a year early, a choice aligned with the Flagg family’s philosophy of seeking continual improvement and challenging oneself.
During his freshman year at Duke, he often appeared as the standout player on the court, and on January 11, three weeks post his 18th birthday, he tallied an impressive 42 points, seven assists, and six rebounds against Notre Dame. During the 2024-25 season, Flagg’s efforts helped lead the Blue Devils to a remarkable record, including a 19-1 performance in the Atlantic Coast Conference and a spot in the NCAA Final Four.
Maintaining Humility and Roots
Now a millionaire thanks to his success, Flagg retains a level-headed demeanor. For his visit to Dallas prior to the NBA Draft, he opted to travel alone, showcasing independence instead of relying on a large entourage. He enjoyed dinner with both Mavericks executives and teammates, further solidifying relationships within the team.
Mavericks coach Jason Kidd expressed his admiration for Flagg, remarking on his intelligence and maturity during discussions, qualities seldom seen in someone so young. Flagg is set to showcase his skills at the NBA Summer League, debuting against the Los Angeles Lakers soon.
As he prepares to step onto the professional stage, his roots remain a core aspect of who he is. On Thunder Road Farm, a corn maze themed around Cooper and his nickname, “The Maine Event,” will open this fall, serving as a tribute to his journey from farm work to NBA prospects. His mother Kelly believes that his competitive spirit remains intact from his childhood, noting,
“It doesn’t matter whether it’s pea picking or anything else. He can turn it into a competition.”
