The Dallas Mavericks turned the basketball world around by trading Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers for Anthony Davis in February.
Fans were furious for days, calling for general manager Nico Harrison to be fired and the team to rebuild.
In May, the Mavericks secured the No. 1 Draft pick for 2025, immediately sparking conspiracy theories and ‘rigged’ lottery conversation for the shocking move. For many NBA viewers, trading a possible franchise star like Dončić was a strategy move in cahoots with commissioner Adam Silver.
After being selected as the overall No. 1 pick by the Mavericks, Cooper Flagg addressed possible theories at the press conference.
Cooper Flagg’s Blunt Response to the ‘Rigged’ Theories With No. 1 Draft Lottery Pick
At the post-draft presser, the media asked Flagg about his views on a possible conspiracy.
The former Duke star kept his answer to the point and blunt as he said:
“No. I don’t know what to say about that. I have no insider information if that’s what you’re looking for. But I just feel blessed for the way it all worked out.”
Flagg maintained that he had no new information, only that he was happy that he now has the opportunity to play for Dallas and hopefully bring home a title for them.
The 6-9 18-year-old from Newport, Maine, is the first No. 1 pick in the Mavericks’ history since 1981, when Mark Aguirre was selected. Notably, Flagg had previously said that it didn’t matter where he landed since that was something not in his control.
Flagg Is Aiming for History With the Mavericks
As mentioned, Flagg’s focus remains on winning a title for the Mavericks. If he does win a title in his rookie season, he’d be the second player to do so after Lakers legend Magic Johnson. A No. 1 overall pick in 1979, Johnson went on to win the title in the very same season.
Could Cooper Flagg see himself becoming the 2nd first pick to ever win a title in his rookie season?
“Of course, yeah. My mindset has always been to be a winner, so I’m going to try to win as hard as I can everywhere I go. I’m looking forward to being successful and winning a…
— Mike Curtis (@MikeACurtis2) June 26, 2025
“Of course, yeah. My mindset has always been to be a winner, so I’m going to try to win as hard as I can everywhere I go. I’m looking forward to being successful and winning a lot of games, for sure,” Flagg said.
While the Mavericks might not be favorites to win the 2025-26 title, one can certainly admit that Flagg’s addition to their roster makes them serious playoff contenders. The team already has Anthony Davis, Kyrie Irving and Klay Thompson leading the way, everyone bringing invaluable playoff and championship experience to the table.
Under the proper guidance and a packed roster, Flagg certainly has an NBA title waiting for him.
