Mavs’ Cooper Flagg returns to Duke for new love interest and She Can Ball

It seems Cooper Flagg loves his alma mater, Duke, so much that he’s finding a new love interest at school.

Over the past few years, Flagg has been winning big in life. Three years ago, he was the most sought-after high school player in the country. He then parlayed his success into a massive void deal with college basketball powerhouse Duke in 2024 and leading them to the national championship game.

Last year, he was taken No. 1 overall in the NBA draft. And while the Dallas Mavericks had a rough season during his NBA debut, the 19-year-old looked like a future superstar. Led the Mavs in points (21.0) and steals (1.2) and earned 2025–26 Rookie of the Year honors.

As a teenage millionaire the world is truly his oyster, and he certainly has countless suitors who would love to know about Dallas and be seen with the new NBA star. However, this week it was confirmed that Flagg has a new girlfriend, and it’s not an actress, supermodel or social media influencer.

Ariana Roberson confirms she’s dating fellow Duke alumnus Cooper Flagg

Ariana Roberson
Credit: USA TODAY Images

On Thursday, Ariana Roberson surprisingly confirmed the relationship between herself and Flagg in a new TikTok post, which showed the pair having a little fun over the holidays. What’s interesting about the couple is that Flagg is a Duke alumnus, while Roberson, 20, currently plays for the women’s basketball team.

Flagg posted a separate Instagram Story late last night that took things a little further and showed the pair in a lip lock.

Roberson was a five-star recruit out of Texas who earned McDonald’s All-American honors as she led Clark High School to a state title. Playing just 18 minutes during his first season, the 6-foot-4 player averaged 8.0 points, 5.7 boards and 1.3 blocks per night. She’ll certainly play an even bigger role in her sophomore season.

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After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos


#Mavs #Cooper #Flagg #returns #Duke #love #interest #Ball

Rumors open the door for the Mavericks to add Flagg and Boozer Duke next season

Could the Dallas Mavericks go back-to-back with star Duke prospects in the NBA Draft? A new rumor seems to open the door to that possibility.

After breaking their fans’ hearts by trading away face of the franchise Luka Doncic last February, the Mavericks got very lucky when a disastrous end to their 2024-25 season landed them in the NBA Draft, and then being selected No. 1 overall.

His luck came at the perfect time as one of the most touted prospects of the decade, Cooper Flagg, was ready for the job last June. Luckily for Dallas, the 19-year-old has lived up to expectations as he leads the team in scoring (20.3) and steals (1.2), while also dishing out 6.6 boards and 4.5 assists a night. Still, his impressive play during his rookie season has not stopped the Mavs from becoming a lottery team again this year.

Although the official draft order has not yet been determined, the Mavericks are likely to land anywhere from the fourth to ninth pick in Round 1. Early mock drafts have linked him to various players, including Arkansas point guard Darius Acuff, Jr. However, the door now seems open to bringing in another Duke star this year.

Could Cam Boozer fall to the Mavericks in Round 1 of the NBA Draft?

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According to NBA insider Jake Fisher, “The question remains within the scouting community as to how Cameron Boozer’s play will get to the next level… NBA personnel essentially wonder if he will be able to replicate [his previous success] Among the professionals.”

After a stellar freshman season for the Blue Devils and nearly leading them to the Final Four this month, many basketball pundits think Boozer could be a top-three pick in the NBA Draft. However, this report suggests that further declines may be shorter than expected due to concerns from scouts. If Dallas gets a pick outside the top three to five, there will be an opportunity to select him.

After trading Anthony Davis before the trade deadline, and with Kyrie Irving set to return next season, the Mavericks could use more help at the swingman spot or in the front court. Boozer and a skilled rebounder and rim protector, Daniel Gafford could be a great front-court duo with Flagg and Irving in the backcourt.

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After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

#Rumors #open #door #Mavericks #add #Flagg #Boozer #Duke #season

Sunday’s Elite 8 games include UConn vs. Duke

The 2026 edition of the men’s NCAA Tournament, aka March Madness, is underway! If you’re planning to watch matchups from the biggest and best tournament in American sports today, below you can check out Sunday’s Elite 8 games, the upcoming schedule and other important details on March Madness, including how to watch.

What is the NCAA Tournament schedule for today?

dategametime (ET)tv information
29 March(6) Tennessee vs. (1) Michigan2:15 pmcbs
29 March(2) UConn vs. (1) Duke5:05 pmcbs

What channel is the March Madness game on?

If you plan to watch the NCAA Tournament game tonight, both matchups can be seen on CBS.

Can I watch March Madness on my phone?

Yes, you can watch March Madness games on mobile devices with the March Madness Live app. (For iPhone users).

How to watch March Madness without cable?

All March Madness games are also available on various streaming platforms. You can watch today’s matchup on YouTube TV, Paramount+, MAX, Hulu + Live TV and DirecTV stream.

Which teams are in the Elite 8?

NCAA Tournament
Amber Searles-Imagen Images

The schools headed to the 2026 Elite 8 are Purdue, Iowa, Arizona, Illinois, Duke, Michigan, UConn and Tennessee.

Upcoming NCAA Tournament Schedule

dategametime (ET)tv information
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4th Apriltbd vs tbdtbdtbd

Who is the favorite to win the 2026 NCAA Tournament?

The popular picks to win the 2026 NCAA Tournament were Duke, Michigan and Arizona, a seed.

Who are the top NBA prospects in March Madness 2026?

The 2026 NBA Draft is projected to be one of the best in recent times, and several players who could be taken as early as Round 1 will be competing during March Madness. The top prospects who were on the hardwood for this year’s tournament were Duke’s Cam Boozer, BYU’s AJ DiBuntsa, Arkansas’ Darius Acuff Jr., Kansas’ Darrin Peterson and Houston’s Kingston Flemings.

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After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

#Sundays #Elite #games #include #UConn #Duke

Friday’s Sweet 16 games include St. John’s vs. Duke

The 2026 edition of the men’s NCAA Tournament, aka March Madness, is underway! If you’re planning to watch matchups from the biggest and best tournament in American sports today, below you can find Friday’s games, upcoming events and other important details on March Madness, including how to watch.

NCAA tournament schedule today

dategametime (ET)tv information
27 March(5) St. John’s vs. (1) Duke7:10 pmcbs
27 March(4) Alabama vs. (1) Michigan7:35 pmTBS, TruTV
27 March(3) Michigan State vs. (2) UConn9:45 pmcbs
27 March(6) Tennessee vs. (2) Iowa State10:10 pmTBS, TruTV

How to watch the 2026 Men’s NCAA Tournament

If you plan to watch NCAA Tournament games on television today, they will be available on the CBS Sports family of networks. They are CBS, TNT, TBS, TruTV. You can find the times, channels and matchups for today’s games above, or scroll down for tomorrow’s pairings.

Can I watch March Madness on my phone?

Yes, you can watch March Madness games on mobile devices with the March Madness Live app. (For iPhone users).

How to watch March Madness without cable?

All March Madness games are also available on various streaming platforms. You can watch today’s matchup on YouTube TV, Paramount+, MAX, Hulu + Live TV and DirecTV stream.

Which teams are in the Sweet 16?

NCAA Tournament
Junfu Han/USA TODAY Network via Imagen Images

The schools headed to the Sweet 16 are Michigan, Texas, Purdue, Iowa, Nebraska, Arkansas, Arizona, Illinois, Houston, St. John’s, Duke, Alabama, Michigan State, UConn, Tennessee and Iowa State.

Upcoming NCAA Tournament Schedule

dategametime (ET)tv information
28 Marchtbd vs tbdtbdtbd
28 Marchtbd vs tbdtbdtbd

Who is the favorite to win the 2026 NCAA Tournament?

The popular picks to win the 2026 NCAA Tournament this month are Duke, Michigan and Arizona.

Who are the top NBA prospects in March Madness 2026?

The 2026 NBA Draft is projected to be one of the best in recent times, and several players who could be taken as early as Round 1 will be competing during March Madness. The top prospects who were on the hardwood for this year’s tournament were Duke’s Cam Boozer, BYU’s AJ DiBuntsa, Arkansas’ Darius Acuff Jr., Kansas’ Darrin Peterson and Houston’s Kingston Flemings.

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After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

#Fridays #Sweet #games #include #Johns #Duke

Duke and Michigan gifted great replacements for Boozer, Lendeborg in transfer portal

Duke and Michigan were gifted a great replacement option for their top stars, Carlos Boozer and Yaxel Lendeborg, in the transfer portal.

It’s a big week for both the Blue Devils and Wolverines men’s basketball programs. A pair of top-five schools have advanced to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament and have a real chance to advance to the Elite 8 on Friday night.

While both teams have strong rosters, Duke and Michigan could not reach this point in the season without ACC Player of the Year Cam Boozer and Big Ten pot Yaxel Lendeborg. Unfortunately for fans of the show, they need to enjoy the ride and the talent of both as they will be gone after this month.

The Duke freshman could be the No. 1 pick in June’s NBA draft, while Lendeborg will be forced to head to the pros as it is his final year of eligibility. Although both programs are focused on their Sweet 16 games, they should also be looking to replace their best players. Well, a very interesting option has just arrived on the transfer portal.

Should Duke and Michigan target Paulius Murauskas in the transfer portal?

Duke
Alonzo Adams-Imagen Images

This week, Saint Mary’s star Paulius Murauskas told ESPN he will enter the portal and be available to the highest bidder to maximize his final season of eligibility in 2026-27.

The Gaels have become a force in the West Coast Conference under head coach Randy Bennett and the 6-foot-8-inch, 225-pound standout has emerged as their best player this season. In his second year with the program, the Lithuanian had a breakout campaign as he led the team in scoring (18.4) and rebounds (7.6), and was second in assists (2.1).

It won’t be easy for Duke or Michigan to replace Boozer and Lendeborg. However, the former Arizona recruit is an interesting option who could be a Player of the Year contender next season at his program.

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After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

#Duke #Michigan #gifted #great #replacements #Boozer #Lendeborg #transfer #portal

Thursday’s March Madness games include Duke and Gonzaga

The 2026 edition of the men’s NCAA Tournament, aka March Madness, is underway! If you’re planning to watch matchups from the biggest and best tournament in American sports today, below you can check out Thursday’s games, upcoming events and other important details on March Madness, including who will compete this month and future NBA Lottery selections.

NCAA tournament schedule today

dategametime (ET)tv information
19 March(9) TCU vs. (8) Ohio State12:15 pmcbs
19 March(13) Troy vs. (4) Nebraska12:40 pmtruTV
19 March(11) South Florida vs. (6) Louisville1:30 pmtnt
19 March(12) High Point vs. (5) Wisconsin1:50 pmtbs
19 March(16) Sienna vs. (1) Duke2:50 pmcbs
19 March(12) McNeese vs. (5) Vanderbilt3:15 pmtruTV
19 March(14) North Dakota State vs. (3) Michigan State4:05 pmtnt
19 March(13) Hawaii vs. (4) Arkansas4:25 pmtbs
19 March(11) VCU vs. (6) North Carolina6:50 pmtnt
19 March(16) Howard vs. (1) Michigan7:10 pmcbs
19 March(11) Texas vs. (6) BYU7:25 pmtbs
19 March(10) Texas A&M vs. (7) St. Mary’s7:35 pmtruTV
19 March(14) Penn vs. (3) Illinois9:25 pmtnt
19 March(9) St. Louis vs. (8) Georgia9:45 pmcbs
19 March(14) Kennesaw State vs. (3) Gonzaga10:00 PMtbs
19 March(15) Idaho vs. (2) Houston10:10 pmtruTV

How to watch March Madness 2026

If you plan to watch NCAA Tournament games on television today, they will be available on the CBS Sports family of networks. They are CBS, TNT, TBS, TruTV. You can find the times, channels and matchups for today’s games above, or scroll down for tomorrow’s pairings.

Can I watch March Madness on my phone?

Yes, you can watch March Madness games on mobile devices with the March Madness Live app. (For iPhone users).

How to watch March Madness without cable?

All March Madness games can also be found on various streaming platforms. You can watch today’s matchup on YouTube TV, Paramount+, MAX, Hulu + Live TV and DirecTV stream.

Upcoming NCAA Tournament Schedule

dategametime (ET)tv information
20 March(10) Santa Clara vs. (7) Kentucky12:15 pmcbs
20 March(12) Akron vs. (5) Texas Tech12:40 pmtruTV
20 March(16) Long Island University vs. (1) Arizona1:35 pmtnt
20 March(14) Wright State vs. (3) Virginia1:50 pmtbs
20 March(15) Tennessee State vs. (2) Iowa State2:50 pmcbs
20 March(13) Hofstra vs. (4) Alabama3:15 pmtruTV
20 March(9) Utah State vs. (8) Villanova4:10 pmtnt
20 MarchTBD vs. (6) Tennessee4:25 pmtbs
20 March(9) Iowa vs. (8) Clemson6:50 pmtnt
20 March(12) Northern Iowa vs. (5) St. John’s7:10 pmcbs
20 March(10) UCF vs. (7) UCLA7:25 pmtbs
20 March(15) Queens University vs. (2) Purdue7:35 pmtruTV
20 MarchTBD vs. (1) Florida9:25 pmtnt
20 March(13) Cal Baptist vs. (4) Kansas9:45 pmcbs
20 March(15) Furman vs. (2) UConn10:00 PMtbs
20 March(10 Missouri vs. (7) Miami10:10 pmtruTV

What time is the first game tomorrow?

The first game on Thursday’s NCAA Tournament schedule begins at 12:15 p.m. ET/9:15 p.m. PT and pits Santa Clara against Kentucky.

Who is the favorite to win the 2026 NCAA Tournament?

The popular picks to win the 2026 NCAA Tournament this month are Duke, Michigan and Arizona.

Who are the top NBA prospects in March Madness 2026?

The 2026 NBA Draft is projected to be one of the best in recent times, and several players who could be taken as early as Round 1 will be competing during March Madness. Players you should keep an eye on are Duke’s Cam Boozer, BYU’s AJ DiBuntsa, Arkansas’ Darius Acuff Jr., Kansas’ Darrin Peterson and Houston’s Kingston Flemings.

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After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

#Thursdays #March #Madness #games #include #Duke #Gonzaga

Khaman Malooch gets real insight on Duke basketball culture, NCAA Tournament expectations, Suns’ success

PHOENIX – Inside the chaotic nature of the NBA season lies a Duke basketball family tone. Players in the program constantly refer to it as ‘brotherhood,’ and no one feels it quite like Phoenix Suns rookie Khaman Malooch.

Duke has a high level of success, consistency and a legitimate championship expectation every year, and one Maluach believes is more than attainable in the 2025-26 campaign.

“I don’t think there’s anyone here (on the Suns) that’s gone to a school that’s actually going to win the (NCAA men’s basketball) national championship,” Maluch joked to ClutchPoints in an exclusive interview before Sunday’s game against the Charlotte Hornets.

“Whether it’s Kentucky, or Michigan, or Villanova, or Marquette.”

As soon as Maluch mentioned Marquette, fellow center Oso Ighodaro, who went to Marquette, looked at him and repeated, “What did you say?” Maluch kept his comments to himself, but he let out a light laugh shortly thereafter.

Khaman Malooch’s journey with Duke basketball

Duke Blue Devils center Khaman Maluach (9) holds the trophy and celebrates with head coach John Scheyer and teammates after winning the 2025 ACC Conference Championship game against the Louisville Cardinals at Spectrum Center.
© Jim Dedmon-Imagen Images

Let’s take a trip back one calendar year.

The No. 10 overall pick spent only one season with the Blue Devils. Maluch played in 39 games and averaged 8.6 points, 6.6 rebounds and 1.3 blocks in 21.2 minutes per game.

He was primarily the third or fourth option behind Cooper Flagg, Con Knueppel and sometimes Tyrese Proctor. They lost to the eventual runner-up, the Houston Cougars, in the Final Four in one of the premier basketball games of that year.

Although some thought he would stay with head coach John Scheyer for one more season, Maluch decided to join the NBA.

His rookie season did not go like other seasons, where the Suns’ center depth prevented him from finding solid playing time. Still, he worked diligently with G-League affiliate Valley Suns and made the most of his first NBA moment.

Ultimately patience won. He has not been named the starter, but has received consistent minutes for the first time in his NBA career. No matter when his name was called, Maluach relied on Scheyer’s lessons to maintain his optimism.

“He taught us a lot off the basketball court and on the basketball court (lessons),” Maluch told ClutchPoints. He really walked us through basketball and what we needed to do to get drafted. We followed him and the recipe worked.

“It’s just being a good person off the basketball court, too, and just respecting each other. It’s just simple things that they really put a lot of emphasis on.”

Khaman Maluach’s time with Duke aided his Sons’ success

Luckily for Maluach, he has a fellow Duke alumnus on the Suns in Grayson Allen. Granted, they played in two completely different eras: Allen with head coach Mike Krzyzewski and Maluach with Scheyer.

Allen’s tenure was highlighted by the 2015 national championship win. Maluach was not as lucky, but he got close to the top of the mountain.

The one common denominator between those two teams? The winning culture remains the same. For guys who have won national championships or been part of those programs, their habits translate immediately to the NBA.

The Suns’ front office put their eggs in the Maluach basket after dealing third-string center Nick Richards at the trade deadline.

He got his first chance on Thursday against the Chicago Bulls. It was a tough performance, posting only two points, four rebounds and four turnovers in 12 minutes. 24 hours later, a completely different story. He posted a career-high five blocks, which currently leads all rookies for most blocks in a game. He had four points and four rebounds with one assist. But it was confidence that came through.

On Sunday, he had four points, nine rebounds, two blocks and a +10 in the box score.

While Jordan Ott’s system can be difficult to learn, as well as the players’ tendencies, figuring out the mental game is quite a struggle. It was that element of play that Scheyer instilled into Maluch’s DNA.

“It was really similar to the NBA. Not game-wise, but preparation, mental preparation,” Maluch said of the instincts he picked up from ClutchPoints. Whether it’s food or habits, it’s really similar to the NBA. It really prepared me for this.”

Phoenix Suns center Khaman Maluach (10) celebrates a three point shot against the Portland Trail Blazers in the first half at the Mortgage Matchup Center.
Mark J. rebilas-imagen images

Khaman Malouch knows Duke basketball is in good shape

Exactly a year ago, the Blue Devils won the ACC Tournament and made the Final Four. With the trio of Flagg, Knueppel and Maluach, the three-headed monster did everything they could.

In fact, Maluach was in rarefied air with Duke basketball during that tournament, making the run to Houston seem like a cake walk. Since all those players left, it was believed the program needed to take a step back.

Other awards include freshman Cameron Boozer, who has a legitimate case for AP Player of the Year. Guys like Isaiah Evans and Patrick Ngongba have lifted the Blue Devils up all season.

As a result, they are in great position entering their respective conference tournaments. With a cumulative 29-4 record and arguably the best team, they have a case to win it all.

Anything can happen, but Duke looks like a favorite to win the ACC.

Although the Suns will be on a six-game road trip during the ACC Tournament and March Madness, Maluch will be eyeing any moment and is confident of bringing home a national championship.

“They really have what it takes to win everything,” Maluach told ClutchPoints. “They’re really high on my list, (they’re) my number one on my list, so I’m really ready for the whole month of March, and I’m rooting for Duke as always.”


#Khaman #Malooch #real #insight #Duke #basketball #culture #NCAA #Tournament #expectations #Suns #success

Cooper Flagg seen wearing boots while attending Duke game

The No. 4 Duke Blue Devils take on the No. 20 Clemson Tigers in an important ACC matchup on Saturday. With the NBA in the middle of the All-Star break, Dallas Mavericks star rookie Cooper Flagg decided to attend the game and watch his former college team.

However, the 19-year-old phenom was seen wearing a walking boot on his left foot. According to Dallas-based basketball reporter Grant Efseth, Flagg is dealing with a midfoot sprain. In the clip shared by WYFF News 4 sports anchor Chase Justice, Cooper Flagg does not appear to be in pain as he walks and cuddles with a man upon arriving at the stadium.

“Cooper Flagg is currently wearing a boot while he recovers from a medial left hamstring sprain. The Dallas Mavericks are next scheduled to play Feb. 20 against the Minnesota Timberwolves.”

With the Mavericks taking on the Timberwolves on Feb. 20, Flagg has less than a week to prepare for action. The former No. 1 pick suffered the injury during Dallas’ 138-125 loss to the San Antonio Spurs on Feb. 7. If Cooper Flagg returns for the February 20 game against Minnesota, it could mean he has a grade-one midfoot sprain, which is not considered a serious injury.

Despite playing as a small forward and power forward during his time at Duke, Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd has a flag playing point guard. It’s a decision that puts Cooper Flagg in deep trouble and could accelerate his development in the NBA.

In 49 games played so far this season, Flagg has averaged 20.4 points, 6.6 rebounds and 4.1 assists per contest, while shooting 48.2% from the floor and 30.2% from beyond the arc. The Mavericks will monitor Cooper Flagg’s left foot in the coming days before announcing his status for the Timberwolves game.


#Cooper #Flagg #wearing #boots #attending #Duke #game