Cooper Flagg’s name is already part of basketball history. On June 26, 2025, the 18-year-old forward was selected by the Dallas Mavericks as the first overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, fulfilling expectations that pointed to him as the most promising talent of his generation.
Flagg comes to the NBA after a spectacular season with Duke University, where he was named Freshman of the Year and a finalist for the John R. Wooden Award, given to the best college player in the country. With averages of 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds and 4.2 assists, he was key for the Blue Devils to reach the 2025 Final Four, losing only to Houston. His athletic ability, game vision and emotional maturity have made him a complete player, compared by experts to legends such as Larry Bird or Jayson Tatum for his style and leadership on the court.
A number and a story with meaning
Cooper Flagg wears number 32 with pride, a direct tribute to his mother, Kelly Flagg, who was a collegiate player at the University of Maine and part of teams that made the NCAA tournament in the late 1990s.
In recent interviews, the young man explained that his mother was his first coach and the figure who taught him discipline and resilience:
The 32 is more than just a number
Cooper Flagg
“It’s my root, my history and a reflection of my family’s sacrifice,” Cooper Flagg said after being officially introduced by Dallas.
That family value is also reflected in their environment:
His twin brother, Ace Flagg, will play at the University of Maine starting in 2025, while his older brother, Hunter, also excelled at Nokomis Regional High School, where Cooper began his legend.
Dallas Mavericks: a new era begins
Buzzy
With his selection, the Dallas Mavericks begin an ambitious project.
Following the departure of Luka Dončić in 2024 and the restructuring of the roster, the franchise is looking to rebuild its identity with Cooper Flagg as the linchpin.
Under the direction of Jason Kidd, the team combines youth and experience:
Figures such as Kyrie Irving, Anthony Davis, Klay Thompson and D’Angelo Russell will accompany the rookie in his development.
Analysts from ESPN and The Athletic agree that Cooper Flagg will not only be the future of the organization, but a player ready to contribute immediately.
“He has the character, talent and work ethic that define the greats,” Kidd commented during his presentation.
The coaching staff plans to use him as a versatile strong forward, capable of defending multiple positions and generating play from the paint or the perimeter.
From Newport, Maine, to the global stage
Cooper Flagg was born in Newport, a small town of just 3,165 people in the state of Maine.
His story is that of a young man who, with hard work and determination, went from a regional school to the face of an NBA franchise.
His success inspires thousands of young people in rural communities and the Hispanic community in the United States, which is following his rise as an example of how dedication and family can open doors in professional sports.
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