DALLAS MAVERICKS SELECT DUKE’S COOPER FLAGG WITH NO. 1 PICK IN 2025 NBA DRAFT

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In a monumental move that could shape the future of the franchise, the Dallas Mavericks selected Duke University standout Cooper Flagg with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft on Thursday night at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. The decision officially ushers in a new era in Dallas, with the 18-year-old prodigy expected to become the face of the franchise for years to come.

Flagg, a 6-foot-9 forward from Newport, Maine, became the first player from Duke to be selected No. 1 overall since Zion Williamson in 2019. Known for his elite two-way ability, basketball IQ, and fierce competitiveness, Flagg is widely regarded as one of the most promising young prospects to enter the league in the past decade.

“It’s a blessing,” Flagg said during his post-draft interview. “I’ve dreamed about this moment since I was a kid. To be selected No. 1 and join a historic franchise like the Mavericks is incredible. I’m ready to get to work and help this team win.”

During his lone season at Duke, Flagg averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game. His dominant performances helped lead the Blue Devils to the Final Four and earned him several national accolades, including the Naismith College Player of the Year and ACC Freshman of the Year.

For Dallas, the selection of Flagg comes after a stunning win in the draft lottery, where they overcame slim odds to land the top pick. It also follows a significant franchise shift earlier this year when the Mavericks traded superstar Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers in a blockbuster deal. With Kyrie Irving now leading a veteran core and Anthony Davis acquired in a high-profile move, Flagg enters a Mavericks squad poised for both immediate impact and long-term development.

General Manager Nico Harrison expressed high confidence in the pick. “Cooper is the kind of player you build around,” Harrison said. “He’s a leader, a worker, and a competitor. We’re thrilled to welcome him to Dallas and excited about what’s ahead.”

Flagg is expected to slot into a versatile role under head coach Jason Kidd, who hinted that the rookie could even be used as a secondary ball-handler in certain lineups. “He’s more than just a forward,” Kidd said. “He sees the floor like a point guard, defends like a veteran, and plays with a motor that never stops. We’ll put him in positions to succeed early.”

Fans in Dallas have already embraced Flagg as their new franchise star. His name trended on social media minutes after the announcement, and his No. 32 jersey is already projected to be a top seller in the weeks ahead.

Off the court, Flagg has already drawn comparisons to elite stars like Kevin Durant, Jayson Tatum, and even a young LeBron James due to his mix of size, skill, and maturity. While such expectations are lofty, Flagg remains focused and grounded.

“I know there’s a lot of pressure that comes with being the top pick,” he said. “But I’m focused on learning, improving every day, and helping Dallas win. That’s all that matters.”

With Cooper Flagg officially in the fold, the Dallas Mavericks have taken a bold and promising step into the future. If the hype and early projections are any indication, the franchise may have just found its next generational talent.