Projected No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg has reportedly left a lasting impression on the Dallas Mavericks during his official pre-draft workout, further solidifying his status as the top prospect in the upcoming 2025 NBA Draft. Aссоrdіng tо league ѕоurсеѕ, Flаgg еxсееdеd еvеn thе Mаvеrісkѕ’ highest еxресtаtіоnѕ during a twо-dау vіѕіt ahead оf thе Junе 25 draft nіght.
The Mavericks, who currently hold the first overall selection, hosted the 18-year-old phenom from Duke University at their training facility. While the franchise had already been heavily linked to Flagg in recent months, this workout may have cemented their decision. Sources familiar with the workout said Flagg’s performance not only matched but surpassed what the organization hoped to see.
“Cooper was absolutely оutѕtаndіng durіng the ѕеѕѕіоn,” one league іnѕіdеr tоld Thе Smoking Cuban, a Mavericks-focused оutlеt. “Hіѕ ѕhоt-mаkіng wаѕ еlіtе, and hіѕ оvеrаll fееl fоr the gаmе іѕ аt аnоthеr lеvеl. Hе truly blew uѕ аwау.”
A Generational Prospect with Rare Two-Way Skill Set
Cooper Flagg’s reputation as one of the most gifted prospects in recent memory is not just hype. In his lone season at Duke, the 6-foot-9 forward averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game while shooting an impressive 38.5% from beyond the arc.
His well-rounded contributions led Duke to the Final Four, and he became just the 22nd player in the program’s prestigious history to be named to an All-American core team.
What sets Flagg apart isn’t just his numbers—it’s his maturity, defensive IQ, and ability to impact both ends of the floor. With elite athleticism, strong instincts, and a tireless motor, he has drawn comparisons to NBA stars like Kawhi Leonard, Grant Hill, and Jayson Tatum.
A Mind Like LeBron? Scalabrine Thinks So
Former NBA player and analyst Brian Scalabrine, who previously coached Flagg during his high school years in Maine, had high praise for the young star. Speaking on The Dan Patrick Show, Scalabrine compared Flagg’s cognitive ability and mental processing to none other than LeBron James.
“Cooper Flagg is like LeBron James—minus the size. He’s a supercomputer. You teach him something today, and tomorrow, he’s mastered it. He learns faster than any player I’ve seen,” said Scalabrine.
He added that the reason many young NBA players fail to transition isn’t talent, but rather their inability to process the game quickly. That won’t be an issue for Flagg.
“He’s got the processor. He’s got the tools. And now, with the right team around him, he’s going to thrive.”
Flagg Seen as Instant Impact Player for Dallas
If the Mavericks do select Flagg, they won’t be waiting for long to see results. Head coach Jason Kidd recently shared his belief that Dallas is in a perfect position to nurture a young star, with a blend of experienced veterans and emerging talent already on the roster.
“We’re building something special, and a player like Cooper could step in right away and be a major contributor,” said Kidd.
Following the high-profile trade of franchise cornerstone Luka Dončić, the Mavericks are seeking a new face of the team—someone who can lead them into a new era. Cooper Flagg could be that player.
History in the Making: Another Blue Devil No.1 Pick?
If selected first overall, Flagg would become the sixth Duke Blue Devil to achieve that distinction in NBA Draft history, joining names like Zion Williamson, Kyrie Irving, and Elton Brand.
His combination of size, scoring versatility, defensive prowess, and elite basketball IQ makes him not just a safe bet, but potentially a transformational player for any franchise—especially one like Dallas, looking to reestablish itself as a Western Conference contender.
Cooper Flagg’s Future Looks Bright in Dallas
With the draft just days away, all signs point to Cooper Flagg hearing his name called first on June 25. After an exceptional pre-draft workout, glowing feedback from insiders, and continued praise from NBA veterans and analysts, the Dallas Mavericks may have just found their next franchise star.
If things unfold as expected, Flagg will arrive in Texas with sky-high expectations—and based on what we’ve seen so far, he looks more than ready to meet them.
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