Anthony Davis, the 6’10″ NBA center, sounds like a man on a mission. After the 2024-25 season filled with injuries and plenty of “what ifs,” the All-Star player is entering his first full year with the Dallas Mavericks with a new sense of purpose.
The franchise that once revolved around Luka Dončić is now leaning heavily on Davis’ leadership and championship DNA, and his latest message to the rest of the NBA makes it clear that he is committed to winning.
What Was Anthony Davis’s Bold Message for Rival NBA Teams?
Davis didn’t openly share his thoughts when asked about his mindset for the upcoming season. In a video posted by the Mavericks’ IG page, Davis can be seen sharing his approach and attitude for the coming NBA season:
“Same thing as last year, nothing changes for me,” Davis said confidently. “The goal is still to bring a championship here. I’m happy to be here, I’m excited to be here, and I want to win here.”
That statement sums up the energy around Dallas right now. Davis insists his focus has never wavered despite a rough first stint marred by injuries and limited appearances–just nine games since joining the Mavericks due to an adductor strain in his Mavs’ debut.
Last year’s frustrations are well-documented. He played just 51 games overall, never reaching the 82-game milestone that has eluded him throughout his career.
But this season, Davis looks ready to silence doubters. Even after undergoing offseason eye surgery that limited his court time, he’s participated in the Mavs’ training camp with intent and confidence.
The Mavericks, meanwhile, are counting on him more than ever. With Kyrie Irving sidelined, Davis will be the offense’s centerpiece, sharing the court with Cooper Flagg, D’Angelo Russell and Klay Thompson. It’s a mix of youth and experience that the Mavs need to climb back into championship contention.
Davis’ résumé still carries weight across the league: a 10-time All-Star, 2020 NBA Champion, and one of his generation’s most dominant two-way big men.
And while preseason stats don’t tell the whole story, his 12 points, four rebounds and one assist against the Charlotte Hornets were a small reminder of what a healthy AD can bring.
How Does Cooper Flagg Want to Help Davis Play Well?
The Mavericks’ new era won’t just hinge on Davis. Cooper Flagg, the 2025 No. 1 overall pick and reigning National College Player of the Year, is also on the roster.
Flagg, who will share the frontcourt with Davis, brings a rare combination of size, shooting, and defensive instincts. His arrival adds a new layer of versatility to a team that has been searching for the right formula since Dončić’s departure.
After the team’s recent preseason matchup against the Hornets, Flagg spoke about how he wishes to build a robust chemistry with AD:
“I gotta find ways to help AD more, play off him a little better,” the rookie said. “Help him impact the game when he’s posting up, getting his isos. So I gotta find a way to help him a little bit more, but I think it’s been huge trying to fit together.”
That’s a refreshing level of self-awareness from an 18-year-old entering one of the most competitive frontcourts in the league. Flagg’s floor spacing and passing could unlock new looks for Davis, while AD’s inside presence will give the rookie more freedom on the perimeter.
For the Mavs, the formula is simple: keep Davis healthy, let Flagg grow, and let the rest of the roster find its rhythm.
If everything clicks, the Mavericks could emerge as one of the most dangerous teams in the Western Conference. And with Davis setting the tone vocally and physically, it’s hard not to believe his message.
