Dallas Mavericks Select Cooper Flagg as First Pick in NBA Draft

DALLAS, Texas — The Dallas Mavericks selected Cooper Flagg with the first pick in the 2025 NBA Draft on Wednesday night. Flagg, a highly regarded forward from Duke, will now take on a key role after the team traded star player Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers earlier this year.

Flagg expressed his excitement about joining the Mavericks, saying, “I’m feeling amazing. It’s a dream come true, to be honest. I wouldn’t want to share it with anybody else.” The Mavericks secured the first pick despite having only a 1.8% chance of winning the draft lottery.

During his freshman season at Duke, the 6-foot-8, 221-pound Flagg averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists. He received numerous accolades, including the Wooden Award and the Naismith Award, reflecting his status as the top prospect in this draft class.

The selection of Flagg comes less than five months after the Mavericks’ controversial trade of Doncic, who led the team to the NBA Finals the previous season. The Mavs hope that Flagg can help rebuild their franchise and regain fan support.

Flagg’s arrival is timely as the Mavericks look to bounce back from a disappointing 39-43 season. He is expected to start immediately in a talented roster that includes veteran players like Jason Kidd and others.

Flagg noted that he is ready for the challenge ahead, stating, “I wouldn’t look at anything as pressure. I think me going into whatever situation I go into, I’m just going to try to be myself all the time.” His determination reflects the aspirations of a franchise seeking to reclaim their place in the competitive Western Conference.

The Mavericks marked a new chapter with Flagg’s selection, hoping he is the key to revitalizing the team and winning a championship in the future. Tickets for the NBA Draft watch party, where fans gathered to celebrate the team’s selection, were sold to benefit the Mavs Foundation.