The Maine Event. Not since Stephen King has a person put Maine on the national map at this scale. Newport native Cooper Flagg captured the attention of basketball fans nationwide with his sheer talent and performances on the court. In 2025, Flagg brought Duke to the NCAA Final Four and became the NBA No. 1 first round draft pick, scooped up by the Dallas Mavericks. He came back to Maine in August to hold a basketball camp with his brother, Ace, for young players. He has thrilled fans at home and in Texas during his games with the Mavericks and in December became the youngest player to ever score 42 points in a game. Though his team is in Texas, Mainers still regard him as The Maine Event.