‘The Sky’s the Limit’ – Mavericks Legend Dirk Nowitzki Reveals What Makes Cooper Flagg So Special

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The Dallas Mavericks are gearing up for the 2025-26 season with an exciting mix of veterans and a highly anticipated rookie. At the center of the buzz is Cooper Flagg, the Duke standout selected first overall in the 2025 NBA Draft. Ahead of the season, Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki weighed in on what makes Flagg such a rare talent and why the team has a reason to dream big.

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Why Is Dirk Nowitzki So Excited About Cooper Flagg?

Flagg is a sensation, and the Mavs landed him through sheer luck. Despite having only a 1.8% chance of securing the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, they miraculously won the lottery. Flagg’s arrival in Dallas helps patch the gaping hole left by the sudden departure of franchise icon Luka Dončić.

Speaking with Mavericks reporter Noah Weber, Nowitzki gave an honest take on what makes Flagg special and shared his admiration for the rookie.

“The hype is real, for sure… The sky’s the limit honestly. Just the way he reads the game already at that age… He’s athletic, skilled, and I’ve heard his work ethic is through the roof. Everything I’ve seen and heard points to him being the real deal. He can score in multiple ways and guard multiple players.”

Flagg’s one year at Duke left a lasting impression. He averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game, earning ACC Player of the Year and ACC Rookie of the Year honors. His versatility, athleticism, and high basketball IQ have Mavericks fans, and now their legend, buzzing with optimism about his potential impact.

Before the new season, Flagg met Nowitzki at the Hall of Famer’s charity tennis tournament on Saturday. The two shared a memorable moment, with Nowitzki embracing the young prospect in what could be seen as a symbolic passing of the torch for Dallas.

Flagg appeared nervous but inspired, and the encounter has given fans a glimpse of the mentor-protégé connection that could shape his rookie year.

How Will Flagg Fit into the Mavericks’ 2025-26 Plans?

The Mavs’ roster is stacked with All-Stars like Anthony Davis, Kyrie Irving, Klay Thompson, and D’Angelo Russell, alongside rising young talents such as Dereck Lively II, P.J. Washington, and Daniel Gafford.

Flagg joins this mix as the team’s top draft pick and a multi-faceted rookie capable of playing multiple positions on both ends of the court. He is expected to contribute immediately, but won’t be forced to carry the team, particularly with Thompson and Davis spearheading the starting lineup and Irving expected to return from injury in February 2026.

Flagg’s two-way ability allows him to defend the weak side, generate steals and blocks, and excel in transition. Mavericks management is even exploring using him as a point-forward to initiate the offense, run pick-and-rolls, and create opportunities off the dribble.

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The Mavericks kick off the regular season at home versus the San Antonio Spurs on Oct. 22. With Flagg’s versatility, a deep roster, and veteran guidance, the team is positioned to make a strong push in the Western Conference, provided health and chemistry align.

Flagg’s arrival represents the most exciting rookie the franchise has seen since Dirk himself was drafted ninth overall in 1998. With a combination of talent, work ethic, and mentorship, the sky may indeed be the limit for Dallas in the 2025-26 campaign.

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