Cooper Flagg’s future in the NBA has been a hot topic of discussion, with many teams eyeing him as a potential franchise cornerstone. Here’s the latest on this rising star:
Cooper Flagg’s NBA Draft Journey
Cooper Flagg was selected as the first overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft by the Dallas Mavericks. This move comes after a stellar freshman season at Duke University, where he averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists, leading the team to the Final Four. Flagg’s impressive performance at the NBA Draft Combine further solidified his status as a top prospect, showcasing his athleticism, feel, and maturity beyond his years.
Fit with the Dallas Mavericks
The Mavericks’ decision to select Flagg is seen as a strategic move to build around him with a veteran core, including Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving. Rich Paul, agent for Anthony Davis, believes this is an ideal fit for Flagg, allowing him to develop his skills without immediate pressure to perform at an elite level. Davis and Irving can provide guidance and support, helping Flagg navigate the challenges of the NBA.
Development and Expectations
Flagg’s development will be crucial in determining his success in the NBA. NBA executives believe his growth will depend significantly on the team that drafts him, with some teams potentially offering a better fit than others. With his versatility, size, and defensive prowess, Flagg has the potential to become a franchise cornerstone. However, areas like shooting consistency and emotional discipline still need refinement.³ ⁴
Flagg’s Performance and Potential
Flagg’s college performance has drawn praise from analysts, with notable games showcasing his skills. In a win over SMU, he scored 24 points and grabbed 11 rebounds, highlighting his potential as a top NBA draft pick. His ability to dominate games on both ends of the court has sparked comparisons to elite players, with some projecting him to be a generational talent.⁵
Reaction to Being Drafted
Draymond Green recently weighed in on Flagg’s situation, stating that he’s “lucky” to be joining the Mavericks. Green believes this environment will allow Flagg to focus on adjusting to NBA defenses and developing consistency without the pressure of being the primary scorer. This perspective underscores the importance of Flagg’s landing spot in shaping his NBA career.⁶
NIL Deal and Endorsements
Before the draft, Flagg reportedly agreed to a $28 million Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal with the Denver Nuggets. This deal showcases his marketability and potential for endorsement opportunities in the NBA. Flagg’s partnership with Chime for financial success and his appearance in their “Mama, I Made It” series with his mother have also contributed to his growing popularity.⁷
As Cooper Flagg embarks on his NBA journey, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how he develops and adapts to the league. With the right support and guidance, Flagg has the potential to become a defining player in the NBA.
