Flagg led Duke to a Final Four appearance in 2024-25, on his way to garnering All-American and national player of the year honors from several organizations. The 6'9'' power forward averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds and 4.2 assists per game, showcasing his mature, well-rounded game that is expected to translate seamlessly to the NBA.

Duke Blue Devils sensation Cooper Flagg, the presumed No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, appeared stunned by the Dallas Mavericks winning Monday’s draft lottery. However, a day later, ESPN’s Jonathan Givony provided clarity on Flagg’s camp’s perspective on him likely joining the Mavericks’ veteran-laden core.

Flagg has been the obvious No. 1 pick all season, but Harrison's decision to trade the 25-year-old Dončić for a 31-year-old Anthony Davis suggested that Dallas was all-in on the present. Had that been the case, Dallas could have offered Flagg for a number of veteran All-Stars, most notably Giannis Antetokounmpo should he become available.