Duke’s Cooper Flagg Addresses New Video With JuJu Watkins, Paige Bueckers
uke Blue Devils freshman sensation Cooper Flagg has spoken out about his involvement in a new Gatorade campaign alongside college basketball stars JuJu Watkins and Paige Bueckers.
The ad, titled “The Take,” has sparked buzz among fans as it highlights the pressures and expectations that come with being an elite athlete.
Flagg, widely considered one of the most promising young players in the country, expressed his excitement about being featured in his first Gatorade ad.
“This is my first Gatorade campaign since becoming a Gatorade athlete,” he said. “I grew up watching the greats in iconic Gatorade commercials and to now be in one myself alongside such talented athletes is surreal.”
The commercial, which focuses on the concept of “it”—representing both the hard work athletes put in and the scrutiny they face—features candid conversations between Flagg, Watkins and Bueckers.
The three basketball stars discuss their journeys and how they handle the challenges that come with being in the spotlight.
Bueckers, a senior at UConn and the first NIL athlete signed by Gatorade, also reflected on her journey with the brand as she prepares for her final NCAA tournament.
“Having been the first NIL athlete on the Gatorade roster, it’s extremely rewarding to look back at all we’ve accomplished together over the last few years.” Bueckers admitted.
“Gatorade has fueled me throughout the highs and lows of my college career and I’m excited to see what lies ahead for us in the future.”
For Flagg, this opportunity marks another milestone in his rising career. The 6-foot-9 forward has been a key player for the Duke this season, helping the team secure a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament.
However, his recent ankle injury in the ACC tournament has raised concerns about his availability for March Madness.
As Flagg recovers from his injury and prepares for the postseason, his presence in the Gatorade ad served as proof of his growing influence in the basketball world.
