Cooper Flagg NBA Draft The 2025 NBA Draft was a landmark event for basketball fans, with Cooper Flagg emerging as the consensus No. 1 overall pick. Selected by the Dallas Mavericks, Flagg’s journey from a small town in Maine to the pinnacle of the NBA draft has captivated audiences. This article dives into Flagg’s draft story, his standout skills, and what his selection means for the Mavericks and the NBA. Whether you’re a die-hard basketball fan or curious about the next big thing, here’s everything you need to know about Cooper Flagg’s rise to the top of the 2025 NBA Draft.
Who Is Cooper Flagg?
Cooper Flagg, born December 21, 2006, in Newport, Maine, is a 6-foot-9 forward with exceptional two-way skills. Before becoming the Dallas Mavericks’ top pick, Flagg dominated at every level:
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High School: Flagg began at Nokomis Regional High School, where he became the first freshman to earn Maine Gatorade Player of the Year honors, averaging 20.5 points, 10 rebounds, 6.2 assists, 3.7 steals, and 3.7 blocks per game. He later transferred to Montverde Academy in Florida, leading the team to a perfect 34-0 record and a national title in 2024, earning National High School Player of the Year honors.
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College: At Duke University, Flagg’s freshman season was nothing short of spectacular. He averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game, leading the Blue Devils to a 35-4 record and a Final Four appearance. His accolades included ACC Rookie of the Year, ACC All-Defensive Team, and National College Player of the Year.
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International Play: Flagg shone for the U.S. under-17 team at the 2022 FIBA Under-17 Basketball World Cup, earning All-Tournament Team honors and the 2022 USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year award.
Flagg’s versatility, basketball IQ, and competitive fire have drawn comparisons to NBA stars like Jayson Tatum and Scottie Barnes, making him a generational talent.
Cooper Flagg’s Path to the 2025 NBA Draft
Flagg’s journey to the No. 1 pick began with his decision to reclassify from the class of 2025 to 2024, making him eligible for the 2025 NBA Draft. This move accelerated his timeline, allowing him to showcase his skills at Duke as a 17-year-old freshman. His dominance in college basketball, combined with his elite performances at the NBA Draft Combine—where he measured 6’7.75” barefoot with a 7’0” wingspan and a 35.5-inch max vertical—solidified his status as the top prospect.
The Dallas Mavericks, despite having just a 1.8% chance, won the 2025 NBA Draft Lottery, securing the right to draft Flagg. This stroke of luck came after a controversial trade of Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers, leaving the Mavericks in need of a new franchise cornerstone. Flagg’s selection on June 25, 2025, at Barclays Center in Brooklyn was met with excitement, as he became the fifth Duke player in the lottery era to go No. 1 overall, following Zion Williamson (2019) and Paolo Banchero (2022).
Why Cooper Flagg Was the No. 1 Pick
Flagg’s selection as the top pick was no surprise, given his unique blend of skills:
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Defensive Prowess: Flagg is an elite defender with the ability to guard multiple positions. His 7-foot wingspan, quickness, and instincts make him a dominant shot-blocker and perimeter defender. He led all non-centers in PER and had high steal and block rates at Duke.
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Offensive Versatility: Flagg is a three-level scorer with a smooth shooting stroke, effective off the dribble, and crafty finishing around the rim. While his 3-point shooting (39% at Duke) needs consistency, his ability to create shots and facilitate as a point forward sets him apart.
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Intangibles: Known for his relentless motor, vocal leadership, and competitive edge, Flagg elevates his teammates. Duke coach Jon Scheyer called him a “savant with the game,” praising his ability to understand what it takes to win.
Analysts project Flagg’s floor as a high-impact two-way player, with a ceiling that could see him become a Hall of Fame talent if his offensive game continues to develop.
Flagg’s Fit with the Dallas Mavericks
The Mavericks, coming off a 39-43 season and the Doncic trade, see Flagg as the cornerstone of their future. Paired with veterans like Anthony Davis and the recovering Kyrie Irving, Flagg is expected to make an immediate impact. His versatility allows him to:
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Play alongside Davis and Dereck Lively II in a formidable frontcourt.
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Handle playmaking duties while Irving recovers from an ACL injury.
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Bolster Dallas’ defense with his ability to switch across positions.
Mavericks GM Nico Harrison called Flagg a “generational talent” who can help the team win now and in the future. With Dallas’ playoff-contending roster, Flagg has a unique opportunity to develop in a winning environment, a rarity for a No. 1 pick.
What’s Next for Cooper Flagg?
As Flagg begins his NBA career, all eyes will be on his ability to translate his college success to the professional level. Key areas to watch include:
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Shooting Consistency: Flagg’s 3-point shooting improved at Duke, but maintaining that efficiency in the NBA will be crucial.
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Playmaking Growth: His ability to create off the dribble and handle increased offensive responsibilities will determine his ceiling as a go-to scorer.
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Defensive Impact: Flagg’s elite defensive skills should translate immediately, potentially making him a candidate for All-Defensive honors early in his career.
Flagg’s work ethic and humility, praised by teammates and coaches, suggest he’s ready to handle the pressures of being the No. 1 pick. His Maine roots and underdog mentality resonate with fans, setting him apart from the typical Duke stereotype.
Conclusion
Cooper Flagg NBA Draft selection as the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft marks the beginning of an exciting chapter for both the player and the Dallas Mavericks. With his elite two-way skills, leadership, and potential to become a franchise face, Flagg is poised to make a lasting impact in the NBA. As he takes the court in Dallas, basketball fans everywhere will be watching to see if he can live up to the hype and become the next great NBA star.
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