The Dallas Mavericks have officially selected Cooper Flagg as the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, marking a significant moment for both the player and the franchise. Flagg, who played for Duke University, expressed his excitement after the selection, stating, "I'm feeling amazing. It's a dream come true, to be honest," while celebrating with his family.

Despite entering the draft with only a 1.8% chance of winning the lottery, the Mavericks secured the top spot, allowing them to pick Flagg, who was widely regarded as the best prospect in this draft class. Standing at 6-foot-8 and weighing 221 pounds, Flagg has impressed scouts and analysts alike. He arrives in the NBA with impressive accolades, having been named a consensus All-American and winning multiple national player of the year honors, including the Wooden Award and the Naismith Award. During his time at Duke, he averaged 19.4 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 blocks, and 1.4 steals per game, leading the Blue Devils to a 35-4 record and a Final Four appearance.

Flagg's addition comes at a critical time for the Mavericks, particularly following their recent blockbuster trade of five-time All-NBA selection Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers. That trade had left many fans outraged, and Flagg's arrival is seen as a crucial step towards rebuilding and restoring confidence in the franchise. With aspirations to compete in the Western Conference, Flagg will join a frontcourt rotation that includes 10-time All-Star Anthony Davis and promising players like Dereck Lively II and P.J. Washington.

As the Mavericks look to rebound from a disappointing 39-43 season that ended with a play-in tournament elimination, Flagg's role on the team is expected to be pivotal as they aim for immediate contention. His talent and potential are anticipated to play a significant part in shaping the future of the franchise.