Cooper Flagg is bringing a new era to Dallas as the Mavericks’ latest top pick — and Maine’s newest star on the big stage.
The Mavericks selected the Duke forward with the No. 1 overall pick in Wednesday night’s NBA Draft, betting that he can become the franchise’s next cornerstone player — just months after parting ways with former star Luka Dončić.
That February 1st trade with the Lakers stunned fans, many of whom threatened to abandon the team in frustration. But those who remained loyal may soon have a new favorite in Flagg — the national college player of the year, who posted 19.2 points and 7.5 rebounds per game while leading Duke to a Final Four run.
The team announced Flagg will wear No. 32, joining fellow Blue Devils Kyrie Irving and Dereck Lively II in Dallas.
“I’m really excited,” Flagg said. “I keep saying I want to be a sponge — to go down there, soak it all in, and learn from Hall of Fame-level players. It’s going to be an amazing experience.”
