Cooper Flagg’s Mom Kelly Reveals Her PLAN to Go Into Coaching Job (Exclusive)
In an exclusive interview that’s sending ripples through the basketball world, Kelly Flagg — mother of basketball phenom Cooper Flagg — has revealed her plans to step into the world of coaching. Long known as a steady and influential presence behind her son’s rise to stardom, Kelly is now preparing to carve out a path of her own on the hardwood.
“It’s something I’ve been thinking about for a while,” Kelly said, seated courtside during an off-day at a youth basketball camp in Maine. “Watching Cooper grow, train, and chase his dream gave me a front-row seat to the game. And somewhere along the way, I realized I didn’t just love watching it — I wanted to be part of it on a deeper level.”
Kelly, who has long been recognized by local coaches and scouts for her basketball IQ and calm demeanor under pressure, says the coaching bug first bit her during Cooper’s AAU days. “I’d find myself drawing up plays in my head during games or analyzing matchups before tip-off. I always kept it to myself, but after a while, I started thinking, ‘Why not me?’”
The move is more than just personal — it’s purposeful. Kelly is looking to join a collegiate program as an assistant coach, preferably in the women’s game. She’s already started taking coaching certification courses and has been shadowing high school and AAU coaches throughout New England.
“I want to give back to the game that’s given so much to my family,” she explained. “There are so many young athletes out there — especially girls — who need someone to believe in them. I’ve seen what a good support system can do. I’ve lived it.”
Sources close to the family say Kelly has already received interest from several mid-major programs, some even floating the possibility of grooming her for a head coaching role down the line. But for now, Kelly insists she’s focused on learning.
“I don’t want anything handed to me because of who Cooper is,” she said firmly. “I want to earn it. Just like I’ve taught my kids: hard work, humility, and heart — those are the real keys to success.”
Cooper Flagg, the projected No. 1 pick in next year’s NBA Draft and a rising star at Duke, says he’s not surprised by his mom’s decision. “She’s always been a coach in the background. Whether it was keeping me grounded, giving advice after a tough game, or just reminding me to love the process — she’s got that leadership in her,” he said. “I think she’s gonna be amazing.”
Though no official announcement has been made yet, insiders expect Kelly to make her coaching debut as early as next season. As for Cooper, he’s fully behind his mom’s journey.
“She’s been courtside for me my whole life,” he said. “Now it’s my turn to cheer her on from the sidelines.”
It seems the Flagg legacy in basketball is only just beginning — and Kelly’s about to write the next chapter.
