Ace Flagg is an American high school and college basketball player, and the twin brother of Duke University basketball star Cooper Flagg. While his twin brother, Cooper, has garnered significant national attention as a projected top NBA draft pick, Ace has quietly, yet effectively, carved out his own impressive basketball journey.
This article delves into Ace Flagg’s burgeoning career, highlighting his distinct playing style, academic pursuits, and commitment to the University of Maine, demonstrating his unique impact on the sport and solidifying his reputation as a formidable player in his own right.
Introduction: The Flagg Twins and Their Unique Journeys
The Flagg name has become synonymous with elite basketball talent, primarily due to the meteoric rise of Cooper Flagg. However, to focus solely on Cooper would be to miss the equally compelling narrative of his fraternal twin, Ace.
Born just one minute before Cooper on December 21, 2006, Ace Flagg has navigated a parallel, yet distinct, path through the competitive world of high school basketball and is now poised to make his mark at the collegiate level.
Their shared upbringing in Newport, Maine, fostered an intense competitive spirit, often leading to “fist fights” during driveway games, a testament to the drive that would propel both brothers to success.
While Cooper reclassified to the class of 2024 to join Duke University a year early, Ace remained in the class of 2025, taking a different route to college basketball. This divergence has allowed Ace to develop his game and identity outside of his highly-touted brother’s shadow, proving himself as a winner in his own right, collecting state championships in three different states.
His commitment to the University of Maine marks a significant homecoming, as he follows in the footsteps of his mother, Kelly Bowman-Flagg, a former UMaine basketball standout, and will join his older brother, Hunter, on the Black Bears’ roster. This article will explore the details of Ace Flagg’s journey, his on-court prowess, and the promising future that lies ahead.
Who is Ace Flagg? A Clear Definition
Ace Flagg is a 6-foot-7, 180-pound (as of late 2024) American basketball player who has made a name for himself as a versatile forward. He is best known as the fraternal twin brother of Cooper Flagg, widely considered one of the top prospects in college basketball. Ace’s high school career has been marked by success, including winning state championships in Maine, Florida, and North Carolina. A three-star recruit, he is committed to playing college basketball for the University of Maine Black Bears, where he will bring his winning mentality and well-rounded game.
Early Life and the Maine Roots
The Flagg twins’ basketball journey began in their hometown of Newport, Maine. Growing up, their competitive nature was evident from a young age, honed through countless battles on their home court.
Their mother, Kelly Bowman-Flagg, a former University of Maine basketball player, undoubtedly instilled a love and understanding of the game in her sons. Their father, Ralph Flagg, also played basketball at the community college level. This strong familial basketball background laid a solid foundation for both Ace and Cooper.
Their initial foray into high school basketball saw them both play for Nokomis Regional High School in Newport. As freshmen in 2022, they led Nokomis to its first-ever Maine Class A state championship, a significant achievement that immediately put them on the radar of basketball enthusiasts in the region. This early success underscored their potential and set the stage for their national emergence.
Playing Style: A Versatile Contributor
Ace Flagg’s playing style is characterized by his versatility, toughness, and high basketball IQ. While perhaps not as explosive as his twin brother, Ace is known for doing “a lot of [stuff] very good,” as described by NBA legend Carmelo Anthony when discussing Cooper Flagg, a sentiment that can be applied to Ace’s all-around game. He is a capable rebounder, both offensively and defensively, and demonstrates a strong understanding of passing lanes.
Standing at 6-foot-7, Ace possesses good size for a forward. He’s shown the ability to contribute in various ways, including:
Rebounding: He actively pursues rebounds, contributing to extra possessions on offense and limiting opponents’ second-chance opportunities.
Defense: Ace is a willing and capable defender, with the ability to guard multiple positions. His instincts and effort on the defensive end are often praised. He was even nicknamed the “Cooper-Stopper” at Montverde.
Inside-Out Game: While he excels at grabbing “big rebounds” and “dominating the paint,” Ace also possesses the ability to step out and shoot the three-ball and hit mid-range jumpers, adding a valuable dimension to his offensive repertoire.
Effort and Motor: Coaches and scouts consistently commend Ace for his relentless effort and high motor, which are foundational to his effectiveness on the court.
His ability to impact the game without necessarily being the primary scorer makes him a valuable asset to any team. He’s the kind of player who makes winning plays and elevates the performance of his teammates.
Recent Trends in High School and College Basketball (as of 2025)
The landscape of high school and college basketball is constantly evolving, with several key trends impacting players like Ace Flagg:
Reclassification: Cooper Flagg’s reclassification to the class of 2024 is a prominent example of a growing trend. Highly-touted prospects are increasingly reclassifying to accelerate their collegiate careers, often to gain earlier access to NIL opportunities or to prepare for the NBA Draft sooner. This trend necessitates careful consideration for players and their families, weighing the benefits of early entry against the potential for further development at the high school level.
Transfer Portal Dominance: The NCAA Transfer Portal continues to reshape college rosters. Players now have unprecedented freedom to move between institutions in search of better playing time, fit, or exposure. While Ace’s high school transfers were a strategic move, the college transfer portal affects how teams build and maintain their rosters, and how players manage their careers.
Specialization vs. Multi-Sport Athletes: While many elite basketball prospects specialize in one sport from a young age, Ace Flagg also played football (tight end, defensive end, cornerback) for Nokomis. While he ultimately focused on basketball, being a multi-sport athlete can develop a broader range of athletic skills and reduce burnout, though specialization is often seen as necessary at the very elite level.
Global Recruitment: College basketball recruitment is increasingly global, with international prospects becoming a significant part of college rosters. While Ace is an American talent, the heightened competition from international players adds another layer to the recruitment process.
Analytics and Player Development: Data analytics plays an increasingly important role in scouting and player development. Coaches use advanced metrics to identify talent, assess player strengths and weaknesses, and tailor training programs. Players who understand and utilize data to improve their game gain an advantage.
Real-Life Examples: The Flagg Family’s Impact
The Flagg family itself serves as a powerful real-life example of dedication to basketball and community impact.
Kelly Bowman-Flagg (Mother): Her collegiate career at the University of Maine, where she made four NCAA appearances and won three America East championships, provides a direct lineage of basketball success and a compelling reason for Ace to return to his home state for college. Her experience undoubtedly guides her sons.
Hunter Flagg (Older Brother): Hunter’s presence on the UMaine men’s basketball team creates a unique family dynamic for Ace’s college career, offering a built-in support system and familiar competitive environment.
Community Engagement: The Flaggs’ roots in Maine are strong. During their time at Montverde, they returned to Maine for exhibition games, drawing capacity crowds and demonstrating their commitment to their home state. This highlights the ability of high-profile athletes to inspire and engage their communities, fostering a love for the sport among younger generations.
Practical Tips for Aspiring Athletes
Beyond the step-by-step guide, here are some practical tips for young athletes aspiring to reach high school and college basketball:
Work on Your Weaknesses: Identify areas for improvement and dedicate consistent effort to strengthen them. For Ace, continuing to “tighten up my handle, get more comfortable bringing the ball up the floor a bit and guarding out by the perimeter so I can guard one through five” (247 Sports, July 10, 2023) is a continuous goal.
Strength and Conditioning: Basketball is a physically demanding sport. A dedicated strength and conditioning program is crucial for injury prevention and performance enhancement.
Nutrition and Rest: Fuel your body properly and prioritize adequate sleep for recovery and optimal performance.
Mental Toughness: Develop resilience, learn to handle pressure, and maintain a positive attitude, even through setbacks. The competitive fire forged in driveway games is a key component of this.
Watch and Learn: Study the game by watching high-level basketball. Analyze professional and collegiate players to understand strategy, positioning, and different playing styles.
Seek Mentorship: Connect with experienced coaches, former players, or trainers who can offer guidance and support.
Balance Academics and Athletics: College coaches look for well-rounded individuals. Strong academic performance demonstrates discipline and responsibility.
Build a Highlight Reel: For recruitment purposes, create a compelling highlight video showcasing your best plays and skills.
Network: Attend camps, showcases, and tournaments to get noticed by scouts and coaches.
Be Patient and Persistent: The path to collegiate athletics is rarely linear. There will be challenges and setbacks, but persistence and a strong work ethic are key.
FAQ
Is Ace Flagg as highly recruited as Cooper Flagg?
No, Ace Flagg is not as highly recruited as his twin brother, Cooper Flagg. Cooper was a consensus five-star recruit and the No. 1 overall prospect in the class of 2024, committing to Duke University. Ace, while a talented and successful player, was rated as a three-star recruit and committed to the University of Maine over offers from schools such as West Virginia and George Washington. Their recruitment profiles reflect their different roles and projected paths in basketball.
What is Ace Flagg’s current height and weight?
As of late 2024, Ace Flagg is listed at 6-foot-7 inches tall and approximately 180 pounds. This makes him slightly shorter and lighter than his twin brother, Cooper Flagg, who is listed at 6-foot-9.75 inches and 221 pounds.
How many state championships has Ace Flagg won in high school?
Ace Flagg has won three state championships in high school, each in a different state. He won a Maine Class A state championship with Nokomis Regional High School in 2022, a state championship with Montverde Academy in Florida (and a national championship), and the NCISAA 3A state championship with Greensboro Day School in North Carolina in 2025.
Why did Ace Flagg choose to play for the University of Maine?
Ace Flagg chose to play for the University of Maine for several personal and familial reasons. His mother, Kelly Bowman-Flagg, was a standout basketball player at UMaine, making his commitment a “homecoming.” Additionally, his older brother, Hunter Flagg, is also on the UMaine men’s basketball team, allowing the twins to play together again at the collegiate level. The decision also aligns with Ace’s desire to contribute to and elevate basketball in his home state.
Final Thoughts
Ace Flagg’s basketball journey, while often viewed through the lens of his twin brother Cooper’s stratospheric rise, is a compelling narrative of its own. He has diligently honed his craft, embraced challenges, and consistently demonstrated a commitment to winning.
His impressive collection of three state championships across three different states underscores his ability to contribute meaningfully to successful programs.
His decision to commit to the University of Maine is a powerful statement of personal connection and a desire to uplift his home state’s basketball program.
As he prepares for his collegiate career, Ace Flagg represents more than just the “twin brother of Cooper Flagg”; he is a determined, versatile, and impactful player who is steadily forging his unique legacy in the world of basketball.
The excitement surrounding his arrival in Orono is palpable, and he is poised to become a significant figure for the Black Bears, proving that winning is a family affair and that individual success can flourish on its own terms.
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