Cooper Flagg hasn’t played a minute for the Mavs, and he’s already on the cover

Cooper Flagg hasn’t played a single official NBA minute yet. Still, the kid is already everywhere. The No. 1 pick in the 2025 Draft arrives in Dallas with the label of “the chosen one.” And now, Flagg has landed the cover of SLAM magazine’s issue 258. It’s a move that confirms what many already suspected. Flagg isn’t just a top prospect—he’s a brand in the making.

The news was reported by Athlon Sports, which also highlighted the launch of a special merchandise line. Hoodies, t-shirts, and a limited metallic edition are all part of Cooper Flagg’s editorial debut. SLAM, known for spotlighting future stars, went all in to present the kid from Maine—the one now carrying the weight of an entire franchise.

A top-tier player

Cooper Flagg, just 18 years old, became the first player born in Maine to be selected with the No. 1 overall pick. His rise was meteoric. Flagg first made waves at Nokomis Regional High School, then transferred to Montverde Academy in Florida, where he faced the best of high school basketball. He eventually landed at Duke University, where under Jon Scheyer’s guidance, Flagg proved he could score, create plays, and lead on defense.

 

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What sets Cooper Flagg apart isn’t just his athleticism. He’s a rare gem—capable of explosive dunks and intimidating blocks. But Flagg also brings tactical maturity. During Summer League, coach Jason Kidd handed him the keys to the offense to test his court vision. And although the Mavericks weren’t favorites in the Draft lottery, luck was on their side, and they landed the most coveted player of the year.

New possibilities for the Mavs

Unlike other rookies who join rebuilding teams, Cooper Flagg steps into a roster with serious aspirations. Luka Doncic was the franchise star before his trade to the Lakers. Gone are other big names like Kyrie Irving, Anthony Davis, and Klay Thompson. But Cooper Flagg’s arrival opens new doors, and many believe the prodigy could become the new face of Dallas. His defensive versatility and off-ball movement could make him an ideal complement.

The SLAM cover isn’t just a nod to Cooper Flagg’s talent—it’s a signal that the NBA is ready to make him a headline act. His official debut is set for October 22 against the San Antonio Spurs. And on that night, all eyes won’t just be on Flagg’s stat line—they’ll be watching how he handles the spotlight.