The spotlight is shifting in Dallas, and all eyes are on Cooper Flagg. The standout Duke freshman is widely expected to be selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft—an event set to electrify Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, one of the most prestigious venues for major Barclays Center events.
Flagg’s journey to the top of the draft board reached a climax following a remarkable season with the Blue Devils, where he averaged 19.2 points and 7.5 rebounds per game and guided Duke to a Final Four appearance. His performance earned him the Wooden Award, making him only the fourth freshman to ever receive the honor.
The anticipation reached a new level after the Dallas Mavericks, owning just a 1.8% chance in the lottery, secured the coveted No. 1 pick. With Luka Dončić now shockingly traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas is ready to usher in a new era—and Flagg appears to be their franchise cornerstone.
Despite widespread certainty, Flagg remains cautious. “I haven’t had that conversation at all,” he said regarding his status as the top pick. Nevertheless, his recent private workout with the Mavericks suggests a strong mutual interest.
The draft’s return to a “one-and-done” college star leading the class comes after two years of international No. 1 picks. Held at Barclays Center, the NBA Draft reclaims its traditional format on a stage known for hosting some of the most pivotal moments in basketball and entertainment.
Flagg’s former Montverde Academy teammate, UConn forward Liam McNeeley, spoke about the excitement surrounding Flagg’s next chapter. “My whole family is in Dallas and they’re stoked to be able to go to Mavs games and watch Cooper. He’s part of the family.”
The Mavericks, still recovering from the fan reaction to the Dončić trade, are unlikely to part with their top pick. With Flagg's talent and mentality—grounded, focused, and unbothered by pressure—Dallas may have found a worthy successor.
“I’m just going to be myself and push to get better every day,” Flagg said. “I’m not worried about living up to anyone else’s expectations.”
As fans prepare to witness history unfold at the Barclays Center, one thing is clear: Cooper Flagg is ready to take the stage—and take over the NBA.
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