The Dallas Mavericks have officially welcomed Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick in the recent NBA draft, marking the beginning of a new era for the franchise. Flagg, previously donning No. 32 during his freshman year at Duke, will continue with that number in Dallas, a tribute to his mother who wore it in high school. Despite the anticipation of jersey conflicts with fellow Duke alum Dereck Lively II, the team quickly assured fans that Flagg would wear his cherished number.

Fans at the draft party were already excitedly purchasing Flagg jerseys, signifying the optimism surrounding his potential. Interestingly, Flagg's inability to wear No. 32 at Duke was due to the number being retired in honor of legendary player Christian Laettner. With Flagg's addition, the Mavericks are poised to enhance their roster alongside established players, including Kyrie Irving, who has navigated jersey number changes himself in recent seasons.