the North Carolina Tar Heels have completed a blockbuster deal, trading forward Jalen Washington and signing high school phenom Cooper Flagg to a record-breaking 4-year, $120 million contract.
Yes, you read that right — $120 million.
The deal, which has rocked the college basketball landscape, signals a new era of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) power in NCAA athletics. With collectives and sponsorships now allowing elite programs to offer NBA-like incentives, UNC’s aggressive strategy has paid off — landing the nation’s most electrifying young star.
Flagg, the 6’9” forward out of Maine and former No. 1 overall prospect in the class of 2024, had been the most sought-after recruit in recent memory. Known for his elite shot-blocking, versatile offensive game, and intense competitive fire, Flagg brings NBA-level talent and hype to Chapel Hill. He was originally committed to Duke but entered the NIL transfer market following organizational changes in Durham.
North Carolina head coach Hubert Davis spoke on the landmark signing:
“This is a generational talent we’re bringing to Chapel Hill. Cooper is not only a game-changer on the court but an outstanding person off it. He represents everything we want this program to be.”
As part of the deal, forward Jalen Washington — once a promising piece in UNC’s frontcourt — has been traded to Michigan State as part of a broader roster restructuring effort. Sources say Washington, who averaged 6.4 points and 4.1 rebounds per game last season, was open to a fresh start where he could take on a larger role.
Flagg’s deal includes major NIL endorsements with Jordan Brand, Gatorade, and Apple Vision Pro, which are believed to account for the bulk of the $120 million figure. This sets a new benchmark in the NIL era and raises eyebrows across the college sports world.
Tar Heel fans are already buzzing. “This feels like getting LeBron out of high school,” said UNC alum David Whitley. “We just became title favorites overnight.”
With Cooper Flagg suiting up in Carolina blue, the stakes — and the spotlight — have never been higher in Chapel Hill. The Tar Heels just went from contenders to the most talked-about team in the nation.
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