Cooper Flagg NBA Draft 2025: Why the Mavericks’ Top Pick Could Change the League Forever

By Edcel Panganiban June 09, 2025 09:25

The Dallas Mavericks’ improbable win of the 2025 NBA Draft lottery, with just a 1.8% chance, has landed them the consensus No. 1 overall pick: Duke’s Cooper Flagg. This selection is widely regarded as a potential franchise-altering moment, with Flagg’s rare blend of size, skill, and versatility positioning him as a transformative figure in the NBA’s next era.

At 6-foot-9 with a 7-foot wingspan and weighing 221 pounds, Flagg is a prototypical modern wing who can seamlessly play both small forward and power forward. His freshman season at Duke was nothing short of spectacular: averaging 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game while shooting an efficient 48% from the field and 39% from three-point range. Flagg’s ability to impact the game on both ends has drawn comparisons to elite two-way wings like Jayson Tatum and Scottie Pippen, with some scouts projecting him as a franchise cornerstone who can lead a team to sustained success.

What sets Flagg apart is his defensive versatility and relentless motor. He possesses the strength and instincts to protect the rim while maintaining the quickness to guard perimeter threats. This rare defensive skill set, combined with his improving offensive game, makes him a unique asset. Flagg himself has cited Tatum as a model for his offensive style, aiming to develop a polished scoring arsenal that includes midrange creation and three-point shooting. His breakout 42-point game against Notre Dame scoring the most points by a freshman in ACC history showcased his capacity to take over games offensively.

The Mavericks, coming off the departure of Luka Doncic and with Kyrie Irving recovering from an ACL injury, are in a pivotal rebuilding phase. Flagg’s arrival offers immediate hope. Jeremy Woo of ESPN notes that Flagg’s readiness to handle significant shot-creation duties could accelerate Dallas’ return to competitiveness, especially alongside veteran stars like Anthony Davis and Irving when healthy. This blend of youth and experience could redefine the Mavericks’ trajectory, shifting them from a team in limbo to a legitimate contender.

Flagg’s potential impact extends beyond individual stats. His ability to play multiple positions and excel in various roles fits perfectly with the modern NBA’s emphasis on versatility and switching defenses. Analysts emphasize that while some debate whether he will become a No. 1 option or an elite second star, the range of outcomes is overwhelmingly positive for Dallas. His combination of size, skill, and competitive wiring is rare for an 18-year-old entering the league.

In the context of NBA history, Flagg’s rise evokes parallels to other transformative No. 1 picks like Zion Williamson, who brought immediate star power and excitement to the league. While Flagg’s path is unique, the expectations are similarly lofty. His rapid development and ability to lead Duke to a Final Four appearance underscore his readiness for the professional stage.

In sum, Cooper Flagg’s selection by the Mavericks is more than just a draft pick it’s a potential league-changing moment. His two-way excellence, versatility, and maturity promise to inject new life into Dallas and influence the NBA’s competitive landscape for years to come. As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Flagg to see if he can fulfill the immense promise that has made him the top prospect of his class.