Cooper Flagg Expected Top Pick in 2025 NBA Draft

Cooper Flagg, the former Duke Blue Devils star, is widely expected to be selected first overall by the Dallas Mavericks in the 2025 NBA Draft. Flagg impressed during his single college season by averaging 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists, leading Duke to the Final Four and earning National Player of the Year honors. He has cited NBA stars Kawhi Leonard, Kevin Durant, and Jayson Tatum as players he watches to learn footwork and offensive skills, though he does not model his game after any one player. Analysts and coaches praise Flagg's versatility, basketball IQ, and potential to elevate teammates, with comparisons made to LeBron James in terms of game processing. With Kyrie Irving out for part of the upcoming season due to injury, Flagg is expected to have significant scoring and playmaking opportunities, with sportsbooks setting his rookie season totals at 16 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game. Flagg’s arrival is highly anticipated, and he is seen as a generational talent ready to contribute immediately in Dallas.