The Dallas Mavericks have officially made their pick for the first overall selection in the 2025 NBA Draft, and it comes as no surprise that they have chosen Cooper Flagg. The young prospect had been on the team’s radar for quite some time, and after winning the draft lottery last month, the Mavericks were able to secure him as their top pick.
But what makes Flagg stand out from the typical top picks? Why is he considered the most coveted prospect in years? According to NBA analyst Brian Windhorst, it all comes down to his landing.
Flagg, who hails from Australia, has been turning heads in the basketball world since his high school days. Standing at an impressive 6’9, he possesses a rare blend of size, agility, and skill that makes him a force to be reckoned with on the court. His ability to dominate both in the paint and from beyond the arc has drawn comparisons to some of the greatest players in the league.
But what truly sets Flagg apart is his landing in the NBA. Unlike many top picks, who often enter the league straight out of college, Flagg has chosen a different path. After completing his high school education, he opted to play professionally in Australia’s National Basketball League (NBL) for two seasons before declaring for the draft.
This decision has given Flagg the opportunity to gain valuable experience and develop his game against grown men in a highly competitive league. It has also allowed him to adjust to the physicality of the professional game, giving him a significant advantage over his peers.
Many experts believe that this unique landing will benefit Flagg and the Mavericks greatly. While most top picks are expected to be franchise saviors and produce results immediately, Flagg will have the time and space to continue honing his skills and adjust to the demands of the NBA game. This will not only take off some pressure from the young prospect but will also allow him to reach his full potential at his own pace.
The Mavericks, who have been in a rebuild mode for the past few years, are thrilled to have Flagg on their roster. With a solid young core led by All-Star Luka Doncic, adding Flagg to the mix is a major step towards building a championship-contending team. The 19-year-old’s versatility and skill set make him a perfect fit alongside Doncic, and their potential duo is already being dubbed as the future of the Mavericks.
But it’s not just his on-court abilities that have the Mavericks and their fans excited. Flagg is known for his strong work ethic, maturity, and leadership qualities, making him a perfect fit for a team looking to turn things around. His dedication to his craft and willingness to learn from experienced veterans will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the Mavericks’ locker room.
While it’s impossible to predict the future, Brian Windhorst has made a bold prediction about Flagg, saying that he has the potential to be the greatest player in franchise history. And with legends like Dirk Nowitzki and Jason Kidd having played for the Mavericks, that’s certainly saying something.
All in all, the Dallas Mavericks have made an excellent decision by selecting Cooper Flagg with the first overall pick. The young Australian has all the tools to become a star in the NBA, and with his unique landing and the support of a strong organization, he has the potential to reach new heights. The Mavericks and their fans can’t wait to see what the future holds for this talented young prospect.
