Duke Blue Devils sensation Cooper Flagg is preparing for the next step in his basketball journey: the NBA. Long projected as the No. 1 overall pick, Flagg now likely knows his destination after the 2025 NBA Draft Lottery handed the top pick to the Dallas Mavericks—despite their slim 1.8% chance.
The Mavericks, who traded superstar Luka Doncic ahead of the deadline, are expected to select Flagg with the first overall pick. After a dominant freshman season at Duke, where he averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 blocks, and 1.4 steals over 37 games, Flagg appears ready to become the franchise’s next cornerstone.
When recently asked who he believes is currently the best player in the NBA, Flagg didn’t hesitate.
“Best player in the NBA right now, Joker,” Flagg said, referring to Denver Nuggets superstar Nikola Jokic. “He just does so much. He impacts winning in so many different ways.”
Flagg’s praise echoes the sentiments of many around the league. Jokic is widely considered the best in the game by players, analysts, and fans alike. A three-time MVP (2020–21, 2021–22, 2023–24), Jokic is once again in the running for the award this season.
In the 2024–25 season, Jokic posted phenomenal numbers:
29.6 points per game
12.7 rebounds
10.2 assists
57.6% shooting from the field
41.7% from beyond the arc
70 games played
As Flagg readies himself for the NBA, it’s possible he could one day join the conversation about the league’s best. But for now, he’s focused on proving himself and helping Dallas return to championship contention.
