If you follow basketball, you have likely heard the name “Flagg” quite a bit lately. While many fans focus on the NBA, there is another story unfolding in the heart of New England. Ace Flagg is a name you need to know. He is not just “the twin brother” of a superstar; he is a fierce competitor with a winning resume that most players can only dream of. From the small towns of Maine to the national stage in Florida and North Carolina, Ace has proven that he belongs on the hardwood.
As of 2026, Ace Flagg is making waves as a key member of the University of Maine Black Bears. Standing at 6-foot-7, he brings a unique blend of toughness and high basketball IQ to the court. While his brother Cooper was the top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Ace chose a different path—returning to his roots to help rebuild the program in his home state. In this article, we will dive deep into his stats, his family legacy, and what makes him such a special player.
Ace Flagg Player Profile and Quick Facts
To understand why fans are so excited about Ace Flagg, you have to look at the numbers and the background. He isn’t just a tall athlete; he is a winner. He has captured state championships in three different states, showing he can adapt to any team and any system.
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Ace Flagg |
| Birth Date | December 21, 2006 |
| Hometown | Newport, Maine |
| Height | 6’7″ (2.01 m) |
| Weight | 205 lbs |
| Current Team | Maine Black Bears (#11) |
| Position | Power Forward / Small Forward |
| High Schools | Nokomis (ME), Montverde (FL), Greensboro Day (NC) |
| Major Achievement | 3 State Titles in 3 Different States |
The Early Days in Newport, Maine
The story of Ace Flagg begins in Newport, Maine. Basketball is in his blood. His mother, Kelly Flagg, was a star for the University of Maine and led them to a historic NCAA tournament win over Stanford. His father, Ralph, also played college ball. Growing up in a house where the game was everything, Ace and his twin brother developed a legendary work ethic. They spent countless hours at the local gym, pushing each other to get better every single day.
In his freshman year at Nokomis Regional High School, Ace Flagg helped lead the team to its first-ever Class A state title. It was a magical season where the community rallied behind the twins. Even then, scouts noticed that Ace was the ultimate “glue guy.” He did the dirty work—rebounding, setting hard screens, and playing lockdown defense. He wasn’t looking for the spotlight; he was looking for the win.
Moving to the Big Stage: Montverde Academy
After a dominant freshman year, the family made a big move. Ace Flagg transferred to Montverde Academy in Florida. This school is known for producing NBA talent like Kyrie Irving and Ben Simmons. Playing at Montverde is like being in a professional training camp. The competition is fierce, and minutes are hard to earn. Ace had to fight for every second of playing time against the best high school players in the country.
During his time at Montverde, Ace Flagg learned how to be a versatile role player on a national championship team. In the 2023-24 season, he was part of an undefeated squad that won the Chipotle Nationals. While he didn’t put up 30 points a night, his efficiency was through the roof. He shot over 54% from the field and became a defensive specialist. This experience taught him how to contribute to a winning culture at the highest level.
A Senior Year to Remember at Greensboro Day
For his final year of high school, Ace Flagg moved again, this time to Greensboro Day School in North Carolina. He wanted to sharpen his skills and take on a bigger leadership role. Under legendary coach Freddy Johnson, Ace flourished. He wasn’t just a defender anymore; he became a primary scoring option and a vocal leader on the floor.
The move paid off in a big way. In February 2025, Ace Flagg led Greensboro Day to the NCISAA 3A state championship. He scored 11 points in the final game, but his impact on the boards and defense was what truly sealed the victory. This win gave him the rare distinction of winning state championships in Maine, Florida, and North Carolina. It proved that no matter where he goes, winning follows him.
Choosing the Maine Black Bears: Coming Home
When it came time to pick a college, Ace Flagg had plenty of options. Schools like West Virginia, George Washington, and Richmond were all interested. However, on October 30, 2024, he made a decision that warmed the hearts of everyone in his home state. He announced he was “coming home” to play for the University of Maine.
This decision was about more than just basketball. It was about legacy. His mother played there, and his older brother Hunter also attended the school. By choosing Maine, Ace Flagg became an instant local hero. He wanted to play in front of the people who saw him grow up and help put the Black Bears back on the map in the America East Conference.
Ace Flagg: College Stats and Performance
As a freshman in the 2025-26 season, Ace Flagg has jumped right into the rotation. Transitioning from high school to Division I college basketball is never easy, but he has handled it with poise. He has shown flashes of brilliance, including a career-high 22-point game against Albany recently.
His current stats show a well-rounded player:
- Points per game: ~6.3
- Rebounds per game: 3.9
- Field Goal Percentage: ~44%
- Three-Point Percentage: ~34%
What these numbers don’t show is his defensive versatility. At 6-foot-7, Ace Flagg can switch onto smaller guards or battle with bigger centers in the paint. He is a high-IQ player who rarely makes mistakes and always seems to be in the right place at the right time.
Analyzing the Playing Style of Ace Flagg
If you watch Ace Flagg play, the first thing you notice is his motor. He never stops moving. He is a “stat-sheet stuffer” who contributes in ways that don’t always show up in the box score. Coaches love him because he is a coachable player who understands the fundamentals. He sets great screens, boxes out every time, and communicates constantly on defense.
Offensively, Ace Flagg is developing a reliable outside shot. While he started as a traditional “back-to-the-basket” forward, he has worked hard on his perimeter game. In college, he is being used as a “stretch four,” meaning he can pull opposing big men out of the paint to create space for his teammates. This versatility makes him a nightmare to guard because you can’t just leave him open on the wing.
The Bond Between Ace and Cooper Flagg
It is impossible to talk about Ace Flagg without mentioning his twin, Cooper. They are fraternal twins, meaning they don’t look exactly alike, and they have very different playing styles. Cooper is a high-flying wing who was a “can’t miss” NBA prospect. Ace is more of a physical, fundamental forward. Despite their different paths, they remain best friends and each other’s biggest fans.
When Cooper was drafted #1 overall by the Dallas Mavericks in 2025, Ace was right there by his side. They have a bond that was forged in the cold winters of Maine and tested on the national stage. Cooper often praises Ace’s toughness, saying that playing against his brother in the backyard made him the player he is today. Even though they are hundreds of miles apart now, they talk after every game to swap advice and encouragement.
Why Ace Flagg is a “Glue Guy” for Maine
Every great team needs a player like Ace Flagg. He is what basketball people call a “glue guy.” He is the player who holds everything together. When the offense stalls, he dives for a loose ball to get an extra possession. When the defense breaks down, he is the one rotating to block a shot or take a charge.
At Maine, Ace Flagg is helping to build a winning culture. After the team started the 2025 season with some struggles, his energy helped them turn things around. He brings a “blue-collar” mentality to the court that resonates with the fans in Orono. He doesn’t need to score 20 points to be the most impactful player on the floor, and that is a rare quality in a freshman.
The Future: What’s Next for Ace Flagg
The future looks bright for Ace Flagg. As he continues to grow into his 6-foot-7 frame and refine his skills, he will likely become one of the best players in the America East. His goal is to lead Maine back to the NCAA Tournament—a place they haven’t been in a long time.
Beyond college, professional basketball is certainly a possibility. While he may not have the same “one-and-done” hype as his brother, his winning pedigree and versatility make him an intriguing prospect for overseas leagues or even the NBA G-League down the road. For now, Ace Flagg is focused on one thing: winning games for the Black Bears and making his home state proud.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Ace Flagg identical to his brother Cooper?
No, Ace and Cooper are fraternal twins. They have different facial features and different heights. Cooper is slightly taller at 6’9″, while Ace stands at 6’7″.
2. Where does Ace Flagg play college basketball?
Ace Flagg currently plays for the University of Maine Black Bears. He committed to the school in late 2024 to play for his mother’s alma mater.
3. Did Ace Flagg win a national championship in high school?
Yes! Ace was a member of the 2023-24 Montverde Academy team that went undefeated and won the Chipotle Nationals, which is considered the national high school championship.
4. What position does Ace Flagg play?
He is a versatile forward. In college, he plays both the Small Forward (SF) and Power Forward (PF) positions depending on the lineup.
5. How many state titles has Ace Flagg won?
He has won three state championships in three different states: Maine (Nokomis), Florida (Montverde), and North Carolina (Greensboro Day).
6. What are Ace Flagg’s average stats?
In his freshman year (2025-26), he is averaging approximately 6.3 points and nearly 4 rebounds per game.
Conclusion
Ace Flagg is more than just a name associated with his famous twin; he is a champion in his own right. His journey from Newport, Maine, to the national spotlight is a testament to his hard work, loyalty, and love for the game. Whether he is diving for a loose ball or hitting a clutch three-pointer, Ace plays with a heart that inspires his teammates and fans alike. As he continues his career with the Maine Black Bears, there is no doubt that he will continue to leave a lasting legacy on the court.
Are you a fan of the Maine Black Bears? We’d love to hear your thoughts on Ace’s freshman season! Leave a comment below or share this article with a fellow basketball fan to spread the word about Maine’s own hometown hero.