After one of the wildest turns in recent NBA memory, the Dallas Mavericks have found themselves back in the spotlight, and this time, for all the right reasons. A surprise lottery win has handed Dallas the No. 1 pick in the upcoming 2025 NBA Draft, putting them in the perfect position to select Cooper Flagg. But beyond the pick itself, it’s Kyrie Irving’s unexpected reaction to this new twist that has everyone talking.
Kyrie Irving Excited About Possibility of Teaming Up With Cooper Flagg
The Mavericks have been through a storm lately. Following the controversial Luka Dončić trade to the Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas faced heavy backlash. But landing the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft has flipped the narrative. And it turns out, no one in Dallas might be happier than the veteran guard Irving.
According to Hoops Wire, a source close to the situation shared that Irving is “remarkably excited” about the chance to play alongside Flagg. The insider added, “He sees this as a rare opportunity to help shape the future with someone who shares his Duke roots and sky-high potential. He sees this as a way to mentor while he heals.”
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That’s big news for the Mavericks, especially with the roster undergoing major changes. Alongside Irving is now Anthony Davis, the centerpiece of the Dončić deal, who’s expected to play a major role in mentoring the incoming rookie. Davis’ veteran presence in the paint should make Flagg’s NBA transition much smoother.
At 6’9″ with elite athleticism, defensive instincts, and scoring upside, Flagg is already being compared to legends like Kevin Garnett and even a more versatile Shane Battier. With Irving possibly stepping into more of a mentor role and Davis holding down the frontcourt, Flagg could be walking into a situation set up perfectly for his growth.
Whether this trio clicks or not will take time to figure out. But for now, Dallas finally has a new cornerstone to build around, and Irving appears fully on board with the vision.
Flagg Reacts to Lottery Result, Eyes 2-Way Impact in the NBA
The moment the Mavericks won the lottery, all eyes turned to Flagg. The Duke phenom averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists this past season, while capturing National Player of the Year honors and rising to the top of every big board.
Appearing on ESPN shortly after the lottery, Flagg shared his thoughts.
“This is an incredible experience to be here, to have this opportunity. I mean, this is what I dreamed of since I was a little kid. So, just to be here is an incredible experience and a great opportunity.”
“This entire experience for me has been amazing,” he added. “Going forward… being a two-way player, that’s something that I’ve been since I was a little kid, so I’m just going to keep doing that to the best of my ability.”
Flagg kept it humble. “I didn’t try to think about it too much. I feel like it was out of my control, so I’m kinda going through the process like everybody else, and just trying to enjoy every single moment because we only get to do this once.”
With Dončić no longer in Dallas, the Mavericks needed a new identity — and fast. Flagg’s all-around skill set, high motor, and natural leadership may be just what the franchise needs. Paired with Irving’s experience and Davis’ dominance in the paint, Flagg could be stepping into one of the NBA’s most fascinating rebuilds.
