Cooper Flagg didn’t need to suit up in a Mavericks jersey for the hype to catch fire. His name has echoed loudly—and for good reason. The 18-year-old forward enters the
NBA with
Duke credentials that command respect. On top of that, projections already place Flagg as the favorite to win Rookie of the Year, according to FanDuel betting odds.
Athlon Sports recently spotlighted this new Texas duo—
Cooper Flagg and Dereck Lively II. Coincidence? Not likely. They’ve known each other for years and share more than a locker room; they share a story. Their bond at Duke remains intact, even as they step into the
NBA spotlight. In
Dallas, Lively emerges as the ideal mentor for Flagg, who’s still adjusting to the pro pace.
Dereck Lively, just 21 and already making waves in the league, understands what it means to enter with
heavy expectations. His towering frame (2.13 meters) and calm leadership show maturity that matters in a young locker room. In his own words, Lively wants to offer
Cooper Flagg “any little detail that can help him feel more comfortable”—proof that mentoring isn’t just about drills or film sessions.
Explosive ambitions
Meanwhile, Kyrie Irving continues to rehab following ACL surgery. Though he won’t return to the court anytime soon, Kyrie’s veteran presence remains vital. Dallas has youth bursting with potential—like Cooper Flagg—and ambitions that aren’t just short-term.
Through it all, Cooper Flagg stands out not only for how he plays, but for who he is. He keeps both feet planted firmly on the ground. Those close to him say Flagg is still “the same smiling, joking kid.” That authenticity has helped him earn the respect of teammates in Dallas, and from others around the NBA.
Given all this, Dallas has a bet on its hands that feels more than promising. The formula mixes youth with chemistry, internal mentorship, and a long-haul vision. Cooper Flagg isn’t trying to impress with soundbites. His statement will come through rebounds, three-pointers, and the hustle that made him a legend before stepping into the league. He’s ready to leave his mark in Texas.
