The Dallas Mavericks legend, Dirk Nowitzki, has been one of the biggest advocates for rookie Cooper Flagg, and he believes he has excellent potential to become a superstar. Dallas’s rookie proved, time and again, that he is exceptional in his performances.
Nowitzki, who serves as a special advisor to the Mavericks, has been one of Flagg’s most prominent supporters since the team drafted him. Over time, that support has evolved into something more personal, as Flagg has begun to build a genuine relationship with the franchise icon.
Cooper Flagg Opens Up on Learning From Mavericks Icon Dirk Nowitzki
Following the 116-114 overtime victory over the Detroit Pistons on Thursday night, Flagg made his appearance in the post-game presser. He opened up about his relationship with Nowitzki, revealing that he is trying to learn as much as he can from the former MVP, and emphasized that they spend a great time talking about basketball.
“I’ve talked about a good amount [of basketball] with him. I think as of late, especially. I’ve tried to reach out a little bit more and grow our relationship. He’s just an incredible basketball mind and such a figure here in Dallas that I’d be dumb not to want to reach out and learn as much as I can from him.” Flagg said.
Cooper Flagg shares his growing relationship with Dirk Nowitzki:
“I’ve talked about a good amount [of basketball] with him. I think as of late, especially. I’ve tried to reach out a little bit more and grow our relationship. He’s just an incredible basketball mind and such a… pic.twitter.com/Hu3Mbr6Blt
— Abby Jones (@_abigaiiiil) December 19, 2025
Having access to Nowitzki’s experience is invaluable. Dirk’s journey, from raw prospect to championship cornerstone, mirrors the path Flagg hopes to follow. According to Flagg, the former MVP has been generous with both his time and advice.
“He’s been amazing, just trying to be around for me and give me guidance in a lot of different ways,” Flagg added. “He has a lot to give me and there’s a lot I can learn from him, so I’m excited to continue to build our relationship.”
Inside the Mavericks’ organization, there’s quiet optimism that this mentorship could accelerate Flagg’s development. With Nowitzki offering perspective and Flagg proving his impact on the court, Dallas may be witnessing the early stages of a bridge between eras.
In his most recent game against the Pistons, Flagg once again delivered an excellent performance during his 40 minutes of action on the court, scoring 23 points, grabbing 10 rebounds, and dishing out four assists that helped the team clinch the overtime victory.
In the regular season, Flagg is averaging 18.6 points, shooting 47.8% from the field, along with 6.4 rebounds and 3.6 assists per game. As for the Mavericks’ concern, they are struggling; they are currently the 11th seed in the Western Conference with just 11 wins and 17 losses.
