On a day that could go down as one of the most influential in sports history, Cooper Flagg becomes the first overall pick in 2025 NBA draft. The 18-year-old forward, who is listed at 6-9, will make his professional debut with the Dallas Mavericks. Flagg’s story from a lanky young athlete in rural Maine to a potential top-10 prospect is an incredible one. He made history as well, becoming the second-youngest No. 1 overall draft pick in NBA history.
Flagg’s breakout season on the campus of Duke University helped catalyze his rise. As a freshman, he put up 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. His performance helped the Blue Devils reach the Final Four. This great accomplishment demonstrated his incredible talent and potential at the national level.
A Dream Realized
Ahead of the draft, Flagg opened up about his path and future goals in a live interview on “Good Morning America.” In his emotional acceptance speech, he thanked the clearly committed support that he’d had from his family, friends and home state, Maine. “I think for me, coming from Maine, it’s a huge part of who I am and what I represent, and I have the whole state behind me, and I feel their support every day,” he said.
Flagg’s decision to graduate high school a year early in 2023 positioned him as a frontrunner for the top pick. His commitment and work ethic in school was an obvious sign of his competitiveness and drive to succeed as a person and player. “It’s about just sending that message that it doesn’t matter where you’re from, where you grow up. All you need is to believe in yourself and work hard enough—you can truly reach your potential,” Flagg continued.
Supportive Foundations
As the young athlete readies himself for this next chapter, he’s fully aware of how essential his intimate circle has become. “I think having my family close with me and having a tight circle of people around me to help kind of navigate through everything is going to be really important,” he stated. Looking ahead, this network of support has been critical in helping him navigate this arduous path to the draft.
Flagg’s recent workout with the Dallas Mavericks went exceptionally well, according to him. “I was able to take a workout there earlier last week, and it was a great visit,” he remarked. His excitement over joining the Mavericks speaks to a youthful eagerness to jump into the fire that is looming large in the NBA landscape.
Anticipation for the Future
Cooper Flagg sure is beginning a fun new adventure with the Mavericks. Yet he still carries the ambitious hopes of millions on his shoulders. Beyond his individual accomplishment, his success story is a model and inspiration to young athletes and parents of all ages. “It’s a lot of emotions running through me. This is a day I’ve dreamed about for a long time,” Flagg concluded.
