Cooper Flagg, the projected No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA draft, is expected to join the Dallas Mavericks for the Las Vegas Summer League, beginning July 10. On that date, Flagg will make his highly anticipated Summer League debut facing off against Bronny James and the Los Angeles Lakers, marking the start of a much-discussed rivalry centered on Bronny James vs Cooper Flagg.
NBA insider Marc Stein reported that Flagg will also participate in the Mavericks’ second Summer League game against the San Antonio Spurs, featuring another top prospect, Dylan Harper, the projected No. 2 pick.
Jason Kidd Plans to Utilize Flagg in Various Key Roles
Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd expressed enthusiasm about Flagg’s versatility, indicating plans to position him at point guard to leverage his playmaking skills. Kidd commented on the strategy ahead of their opening Summer League contest.
“I want to put him at point guard. … I’m excited to give him the ball against the Lakers and see what happens,”
—Jason Kidd, Dallas Mavericks Head Coach
This tactical approach aims to provide Flagg with ample opportunity to demonstrate his talent and leadership on the court in high-pressure situations early in his professional career.
Flagg’s Approach to Expectations and Growth
After an impressive freshman season with the Duke Blue Devils, Flagg remains grounded despite heightened expectations. He emphasized a focus on continuous improvement rather than external pressure.
“I’m coming in just trying to learn and trying to get better every single day,”
“I think if I can do that to the best of my ability, I think expectations and pressures that other people will put on me and our team, that will kind of work itself out. I’m just trying to come in and be the best that I can be, and just win at the highest level.”
—Cooper Flagg, Dallas Mavericks Rookie
Flagg’s well-rounded game at Duke included averages of 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, along with 1.4 steals and 1.4 blocks per game, while shooting efficiently from both inside and beyond the arc, demonstrating his all-around capabilities.
Nico Harrison Weighs Flagg’s Impact on Mavericks’ Present and Future
Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison highlighted Flagg’s significance not only for the team’s immediate progress but also its long-term outlook. Harrison sees Flagg as a crucial component in Dallas’s dual mission of competing now and building for sustained success.
“We’re in win now mode and he adds to that, but he’s also the future of the franchise,”
“We get two-in-one, it’s a perfect storm for us.”
—Nico Harrison, Dallas Mavericks General Manager
This outlook reflects the Mavericks’ confidence that Flagg can contribute meaningfully both as a rookie and beyond, melding his youthful energy with experience from the team’s established veterans.
Veteran Support Eases Flagg’s Transition to the NBA
Joining a Mavericks roster that includes seasoned stars such as Anthony Davis, Kyrie Irving, and Klay Thompson, Flagg will benefit from mentorship by players with six combined championships and over 300 playoff games of experience. This veteran presence should help him adapt smoothly as he transitions from college to professional basketball.
While Flagg is not expected to lead Dallas in scoring immediately, the Summer League offers a prime stage for him to exhibit his scoring prowess and versatility. His performance in these games will provide early insights into his potential impact during the 2025-26 NBA season and beyond.