Cooper Flagg’s Mom Criticized for Viral Celebration During Duke-UNC Rivalry Game

Kelly Flagg defended her emotional reaction to UNC fans' behavior, igniting debate over sportsmanship and fan conduct.

Kelly Flagg, mother of Duke star Cooper Flagg, went viral for her celebratory 'on his head' gesture during Duke's victory over UNC.
Her reaction followed what she described as harassment from UNC fans, including crude and hostile behavior directed at her family and son during the game.
Kelly issued a Facebook apology for her language but also called out UNC fans for what she labeled as 'classless' conduct throughout the rivalry matchup.
Former UNC players Theo Pinson and Raymond Felton weighed in, with Felton warning that such intense fan behavior is common and unavoidable in high-profile college basketball rivalries.
The incident has sparked broader conversations about the balance between passionate fandom and respectful conduct in sports.