Duke's freshman phenom makes zero history before playing his first collegiate game

Cooper Flagg made college basketball history before playing his first game.

Duke's freshman phenom was announced today as the first NCAA men's basketball player to sign a zero-contract contract with Gatorade. He joins a line-up of ambassadors that already includes basketball stars Paige Bueckers and Juju Watkins, as well as Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders.

Flagg, a 6-9 forward from Maine, is considered a true generational talent. He was named a first-team preseason All-American by the Associated Press earlier this month and was named the Gatorade Male Player of the Year in July.

Flagg will work with the sports drink brand to connect with the next generation of athletes and appear in Gatorade's upcoming marketing efforts.

“Cooper is an incredible talent who has quickly become one of the best young athletes in the country, and we know he has a bright future ahead of him,” said Jeff Kearney, Global Head of Sports Marketing at Gatorade. “At Gatorade, we work with the best of the best, so we are proud to welcome Cooper to the family and look forward to supporting him as he begins his college career.”

Flagg was as advertised in the preseason of what was likely his only college season.

Flagg, who has the potential to impact the game on both ends of the floor, performed as promised in the preseason. He posted a team-high 22 points, six assists, four blocks and two rebounds in an exhibition win against Lincoln (PA) on October 21.

He had nine points, four rebounds and three assists against Arizona State on Sunday.

No. 7 Duke opens its season Nov. 4 against Maine, Flagg's hometown team.