The Dallas Mavericks have selected Cooper Flagg as the first overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, marking the start of a new era for the franchise. Flagg, an 18-year-old freshman standout from Duke University, was the top-ranked prospect in this year’s class.
Flagg impressed scouts all season, averaging 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game. He becomes the second-youngest No. 1 pick in NBA history—just eight days older than LeBron James was in 2003.
The pick comes after a dramatic year for Dallas. The Mavericks stunned the league by winning the draft lottery with just a 1.8% chance. This followed a controversial trade that sent Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis. The move shocked fans, many of whom were furious.
Injuries to Kyrie Irving and Davis crushed Dallas’s playoff hopes. But the arrival of Flagg has given fans a reason to believe again. Hundreds gathered at a Dallas draft watch party, cheering loudly when the pick was announced.
Flagg is known for his versatile skill set, strong work ethic, and calm demeanor under pressure. His longtime trainer said, “He’s wired differently. He’s ready for this.”
He will now join a Mavericks core that includes veteran Kyrie Irving and center Dereck Lively II—both also Duke alumni. Irving is expected to return from injury next season.
While questions remain about the team’s management, many fans see Flagg as a potential superstar who can lead Dallas back into title contention.
