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4 hours ago
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Cooper Flagg might have looked surprised when the ping pong balls bounced Dallas’ way, but he’s not complaining.
In an outcome few could have predicted, the Dallas Mavericks won the 2025 NBA Draft Lottery despite coming off a run to the Finals just one year prior. Now, the team is in prime position to select the No. 1 overall prospect in the class — Duke’s Cooper Flagg — who appears more than ready to embrace the moment.
According to ESPN’s Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo, Flagg is “thrilled” at the possibility of joining a playoff-contending team loaded with experienced stars. The 18-year-old phenom is reportedly scheduling a visit to Dallas ahead of the draft, and the Mavericks appear intent on taking him.
"All indications from Flagg's camp are that he is thrilled with potentially joining a playoff-contending team with strong veterans, despite initially appearing shocked by the lottery's outcome," Givony and Woo reported.
It’s a rare situation for the top pick in the draft, who usually lands on a rebuilding roster looking to climb out of the league’s basement. That won’t be the case for Flagg.
The Mavericks’ decision to trade Luka Doncic to the Lakers still hangs over the franchise like a question mark, but the Flagg pick could go a long way in shifting that narrative. Givony noted that Mavericks ownership is not expected to entertain trade offers for the No. 1 pick.
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Flagg’s game seems built for the challenge. The former Duke standout just became only the fourth freshman in college basketball history to win the Wooden Award, dominating with his two-way versatility, high motor, and advanced basketball IQ. His ability to score at all three levels and make plays for others only makes him more enticing.
If all goes according to plan, Dallas could have the best of both worlds — the chance to compete now with its veteran core, and a generational talent to carry the torch once that window closes.
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