Inola's Cooper Thompson reflects on his recent National Free Throw Title

A lot of people spend their whole lives trying to be perfect at something. Cooper Thompson has already done that, and he's only 14.

Cooper Thompson, "I practiced every single day for like the last six years, so I've practiced a lot."

The Inola 7th grader's specialty? Making free throws.

Tucker Thompson said, "Cooper would have me drop him off at the gym when I would get to school, and then we'd have another practice after school."

Cooper earned the Elks Hoop Shoot national championship last month, going a perfect 35 for 35 in the finals in Chicago, claiming the boys 12 and 13-year-old division AND the overall title. Including his finish at regionals in Dallas, Cooper made his last 50 shots.

It's actually in his DNA. His dad, Tucker, competed in the event as a young boy, and his brother Caden? He was the first in the family to win it all back in 2020.

Caden Thompson said, "It's super exciting. I mean it's such a big deal, but for both of us to win, it's a really cool accomplishment."

Tucker adds, "To get through that many stages, with that kind of pressure, with you being the only one standing on the line, it's pretty special, and it's very hard."

Cooper adds, "I learned about grit and stuff in the moment."

The final touch? Cooper's name will now be part of the Elks Hoop Shoot exhibit at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

And Cooper has a lot of people to thank for it all.

"My coaches, my family, my friends, my teachers, and the community. I would like to thank Dan Smart and the Claremore Elks Lodge for supporting me and sponsoring me. I would also hope to inspire young students to do the Elks Hoop Shoot."

Cooper told News On 6's Ravin Ray his next goal is to make 200 free throws straight. His current streak is 140.