Cooper Flagg, the top pick in the recent NBA Draft, has already made waves after being selected by the Dallas Mavericks, an unexpected twist for a player who reclassified to enter college a year early. Flagg, who dazzled during his year at Duke, averaged 19.2 points and was a key factor in their success, including an ACC championship and a Final Four run. His combination of size, athleticism, and skill led to comparisons with legends like Kawhi Leonard and Scottie Pippen, catching the eye of NBA greats such as LeBron James.

The Mavericks’ choice to draft Flagg comes amidst a dramatic landscape, losing their previous star Luka Doncic. With an established team featuring veterans like Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis, Flagg will have the opportunity to develop without immediate pressure. He has expressed a desire to focus on his growth rather than the expectations set by others, indicating a balanced mindset as he embarks on his professional career.

The Dallas Mavericks have made a significant move by selecting Cooper Flagg as the No. 1 overall pick in the NBA draft, marking a new chapter for the team. Flagg, an 18-year-old forward from Duke, is touted as a generational talent with impressive skills, including a 7-foot wingspan and the ability to score from anywhere on the court. His drafting fulfills a long-held dream for the player and the Mavericks, who celebrate this pivotal moment in franchise history.

Flagg's journey began in Newport, Maine, and his rise through high school culminated in a stellar season at Duke, where he averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and earned accolades such as AP Player of the Year. He joins a talented Mavericks roster that includes stars like Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis, providing a promising future for the franchise as they aim to compete in the NBA.

The 2025 NBA Draft is set to kick off, with the Oklahoma City Thunder poised to make a significant impact from their three draft picks. After securing the championship, the Thunder are in a unique position to both add young talent and potentially move up in the draft. With picks at 15 (from the Miami Heat), 24 (from the Clippers), and 44 (from the Hawks), they have the flexibility to make aggressive moves, especially with high-profile names like Duke's Cooper Flagg expected to be selected early. The Thunder's management is evaluating trade opportunities as teams look to balance rebuilding and championship aspirations.

Steph Curry, the star guard for the Golden State Warriors, has reached out to prospects in the upcoming NBA draft, recalling his own experience as the seventh overall pick in 2009. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Curry encouraged the draftees to be open to unexpected opportunities and trust their journey, reflecting on how he overcame doubts about his size and injury history to become a four-time champion and two-time MVP.

The draft features notable prospects like Cooper Flagg, projected as the top pick, and others like Dylan Harper and Khaman Maluach. Curry's message resonates with these young talents, reminding them that uncertainties can lead to remarkable achievements.

The NBA draft is approaching, with Duke standout Cooper Flagg projected as the top overall pick, likely to be selected by the Dallas Mavericks. This comes as a surprise to many, given that Dallas had just a 1.8% chance of winning the lottery. Flagg, who has consistently been labeled the consensus No. 1 pick, boasts impressive college statistics, leading his team with 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. Flagg aims to win Rookie of the Year and focuses on continuous improvement throughout his career.

Joining veterans like Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis, Flagg's transition into the league will happen in a highly competitive environment. The Mavericks' management is keen on building a championship-contending roster around him, particularly after a lucky lottery outcome.