Shaquille O'Neal Praises Mavericks' Cooper Flagg After Summer League Impact

The Dallas Mavericks, following their trade of superstar Luka Doncic, secured the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and selected Cooper Flagg, a highly touted rookie from Duke. Flagg, seen as a potential generational talent, has already shown promise during the NBA Summer League, bouncing back from a slow debut to score 31 points in his second game before being rested for the remainder of the event. Hall of Famer Shaquille O'Neal praised Flagg and the Mavericks organization, emphasizing the positive environment for Flagg's development and comparing his early career trajectory to that of Dirk Nowitzki. Despite fan backlash over trading Doncic, the presence of future Hall of Famers like Anthony Davis, Kyrie Irving (recovering from injury), and Klay Thompson alongside Flagg creates a strong foundation for the team's future. Flagg himself acknowledges the benefit of learning alongside such experienced players without the immediate pressure to lead. Overall, the Mavericks are optimistic about Flagg ushering in a new winning era and becoming an NBA legend.