Cooper Flagg can’t escape the ghost of the Great White Hope | Lee Escobedo

The Guardian – SportFriday, October 17, 2025 at 8:00:06 AM
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Cooper Flagg can’t escape the ghost of the Great White Hope | Lee Escobedo
The article discusses how Cooper Flagg, an 18-year-old basketball prodigy, is now seen as the latest embodiment of the 'Great White Hope' in American sports, a concept that has historical roots dating back to figures like Jack Johnson and Larry Bird. This narrative highlights the ongoing racial dynamics in sports and how Flagg, despite his talent, is caught in a complex legacy that transcends the game itself. It matters because it reflects the societal expectations and pressures placed on athletes based on race, and how these narratives continue to shape public perception.
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