UPDATE: Cooper Flagg, the first overall pick in the NBA Draft, is set to make his highly anticipated NBA regular season debut tonight against the San Antonio Spurs at 9:30 p.m. ET. Fans in his hometown of Newport, Maine, are already buzzing with excitement and predictions for the young star.
Local grocery store owner Robert Berg has taken to his store’s sign to predict Flagg’s performance, estimating he will score 18 points, grab 6 rebounds, and dish out 3 assists. The stakes are high, as Berg has agreed to reward a local customer with a free ribeye steak if Flagg hits 24 points, a prediction made by enthusiastic fan Lori Hopkins. “If he scores 24 — you want a ribeye or a filet mignon?” Berg quipped, hoping for a great performance by the rookie.
Regardless of the scoreboard, the pride and support for Flagg run deep in Newport. “Doesn’t matter if he doesn’t get off the bench,” Hopkins stated. “He’s still making us proud.” This sentiment resonates throughout the tight-knit community, where residents feel a personal connection to Flagg. Town Manager Dylan Lajoie echoed this sentiment, saying, “This is your neighbor… It doesn’t matter. He’s in the NBA. He’s living the dream.”
As Flagg steps onto the court in Dallas, Newport residents are ready to cheer from afar. Local business owner Jason Erb plans to stay up late to catch the game and predicts Flagg will achieve 13 points, 11 rebounds, and 8 assists. The enthusiasm for Flagg’s journey is palpable, with community members sharing their expectations for his debut performance.
Jeff Nickerson, a local who played baseball with Flagg’s grandfather, believes in his potential. “He has the right work ethic and genetics to succeed,” Nickerson remarked, confident that Flagg will continue to grow as he navigates his professional career.
Tonight’s game is not just about numbers; it’s a historic moment for Newport and the entire state of Maine. Residents are rallying around their local hero, with many planning to watch the game together, celebrating Flagg’s achievements regardless of the outcome. “For a town this size, Cooper going to the NBA is like having a close family member do it,” Lajoie explained, capturing the community’s pride.
As the clock ticks down to game time, anticipation builds. Newport has never experienced anything like this, and the excitement is infectious. “I think everybody’s going to be watching,” said Hopkins, reflecting the collective enthusiasm that has enveloped the town.
The NBA season opener is a defining moment, marking the start of Flagg’s professional journey. Fans will be glued to their screens, not just for the game, but to witness a dream that resonates deeply within their community. “I’m really looking forward to seeing an NBA championship trophy coming down Main Street,” Lajoie added, envisioning a future celebration for the town’s rising star.
As Cooper Flagg takes center stage, his debut symbolizes hope and pride for Newport, Maine, reminding everyone of the power of dreams and the support of a community that stands behind its own.
