The Future Is Flagg: Dallas Set to Draft Duke’s Superstar #1 Overall

Cooper Flagg is poised to be the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, with the Dallas Mavericks expected to select him. The Mavericks secured the top pick in the draft lottery despite having only a 1.8% chance, and they view Flagg as a transformative talent for their franchise .

Flagg, an 18-year-old forward from Newport, Maine, had an outstanding freshman season at Duke University. He averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, leading the Blue Devils to the Final Four. His exceptional performance earned him multiple national accolades, including the Wooden Award, Naismith Award, and Associated Press Player of the Year .

The Mavericks, having recently traded Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers for Anthony Davis, are in a rebuilding phase. They see Flagg as a cornerstone for their future, especially since they lack first-round picks in three of the next four drafts due to previous trades .

While there has been speculation about potential trades involving the top pick, including a possible deal for Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Mavericks’ management has indicated their intention to keep the pick and draft Flagg .

The NBA Draft is scheduled for June 25–26 in New York, where Flagg is expected to officially begin his professional career.