Dallas Mavericks Win 2025 NBA Draft Lottery, Expected Select Duke's Cooper Flagg No.1 Pick

Cooper Flagg, the highly touted Duke forward and projected No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, has overcome early doubts about his basketball potential stemming from his upbringing in Maine, a state not known for producing basketball stars. Flagg led Duke in multiple statistical categories during his freshman season, averaging 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists, and was instrumental in guiding the Blue Devils to the Final Four. Following the Dallas Mavericks' unprecedented jump in the NBA Draft Lottery to secure the top pick, Flagg expressed excitement about the possibility of joining the team, acknowledging the opportunity to play alongside former Duke teammate Dereck Lively and established NBA stars. At the NBA Draft Combine, Flagg emphasized his commitment to maintaining his process and identity amidst the hype, while scouts have praised his two-way impact, versatility, and maturity, viewing him as a potential franchise cornerstone. Despite the Mavericks having only a 1.8% chance pre-lottery, their acquisition of the first pick has intensified anticipation around Flagg's NBA future, with the draft set for June 25 in Brooklyn. Flagg is also valued highly off the court, with an NIL worth estimated at $4.8 million as he prepares to transition to the professional level.