Kyrie Irving is reportedly “stoked” about Cooper Flagg, Duke’s projected No. 1 pick, potentially joining him on the Dallas Mavericks.

The Dallas Mavericks’ future is looking exceptionally bright, and one of their current cornerstones, Kyrie Irving, is openly expressing his enthusiasm for the potential addition of Duke phenom Cooper Flagg. With the Mavericks recently securing the coveted No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, all signs point to them selecting Flagg, widely regarded as a generational talent and the clear-cut top prospect in his class.

Irving, a fellow Duke Blue Devil alumnus, shared his excitement about the prospect of Flagg joining the Mavericks, highlighting their shared collegiate connection and Flagg’s perceived ability to thrive under pressure. “We definitely are connected. He’s a Duke Blue Devil, and I know he can deal with the pressure, and I’m looking forward to seeing a great season not only from him but a lot of the other young players that are here nationally and also internationally,” Irving stated recently.

A Duke Brotherhood in Dallas

The potential union of Irving and Flagg would create a unique “Duke brotherhood” within the Mavericks’ locker room, a dynamic that could prove invaluable for Flagg’s transition to the professional ranks. Irving, who played one season at Duke before being the No. 1 overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, understands the immense expectations and scrutiny that come with being a top-tier prospect from such a storied program. His mentorship could be crucial for Flagg as he navigates the complexities of the NBA.

This isn’t the first time Dallas has seen a Duke connection flourish. The Mavericks also boast center Dereck Lively II, another Duke product who was a lottery pick in 2023 and has quickly established himself as a key defensive anchor and lob threat for the team. The presence of two former Blue Devils could foster a strong sense of camaraderie and shared understanding, making Dallas an even more appealing destination for Flagg.

Sources close to the Mavericks’ organization have indicated that Irving is “remarkably excited” about the possibility of playing with Flagg, viewing it as a “rare chance to help shape the future with someone who shares his Duke lineage and sky-high potential.” This sentiment underscores Irving’s apparent eagerness to embrace a mentoring role, a significant development for a player whose career has seen its share of ups and downs regarding team dynamics.

Cooper Flagg: A Generational Talent

Cooper Flagg has been on the radar of NBA scouts and fans for years, his exceptional talent and well-rounded game earning him comparisons to some of the league’s most versatile stars. At 6-foot-9 and 200 pounds, Flagg possesses an elite combination of size, athleticism, skill, and a relentless motor.

During his freshman season at Duke, Flagg lived up to the hype, putting up impressive numbers and showcasing his two-way dominance. He averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, while also exhibiting high-level defensive instincts with his shot-blocking and disruptive playmaking. His performance earned him national player of the year honors and solidified his status as the consensus No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.

Flagg’s game is marked by its completeness. He’s a capable shooter from beyond the arc, can attack off the dribble, and possesses excellent court vision as a passer. Defensively, he projects as a versatile stopper capable of guarding multiple positions and impacting the game with his length and anticipation. His unselfishness and high basketball IQ also make him an ideal fit for any team looking to build a cohesive unit.

The Mavericks’ Unexpected Lottery Win

The Dallas Mavericks’ acquisition of the No. 1 pick was nothing short of a miracle. Despite finishing the 2024-2025 NBA season with a 39-43 record and only having a 1.8% chance of winning the lottery, the ping-pong balls bounced their way, defying all odds. This improbable outcome provided a much-needed jolt to a franchise that had recently traded superstar Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers.

The trade of Doncic was a controversial move at the time, leaving many questioning the direction of the franchise. However, the unexpected lottery win, coupled with the potential addition of Flagg, has revitalized the team’s outlook. The idea of building a new core around Flagg, alongside established veterans like Irving and potentially Anthony Davis (who was acquired in the Doncic trade), presents a compelling vision for the future.

Mentor and Protégé: The Ideal Scenario

For the Mavericks, the presence of Kyrie Irving as a mentor for Cooper Flagg is an ideal scenario. Irving, despite his past controversies, possesses an unparalleled understanding of the game and elite skill. His ball-handling wizardry, scoring prowess, and clutch playmaking are attributes that Flagg can learn from directly.

Beyond the court, Irving’s experience with media scrutiny, high expectations, and the general pressures of being an NBA star could provide invaluable guidance for Flagg. The “Duke brotherhood” connection offers a natural foundation for this mentorship, allowing for open communication and shared understanding between the two players.

Furthermore, Irving’s current mindset appears to be conducive to such a role. Reports suggest he is in a different headspace compared to earlier in his career, more focused on contributing to team success and embracing a leadership position. Mentoring Flagg could be a significant aspect of his continued growth and legacy in Dallas.

The Future in Dallas

With Cooper Flagg all but certain to be the No. 1 pick heading to Dallas, the Mavericks are poised for a new era. The combination of Flagg’s immense potential, Kyrie Irving’s leadership and skill, and Dereck Lively II’s growing presence creates a young, dynamic core with significant upside.

The team’s general manager, Nico Harrison, has publicly stated that the No. 1 pick is not for trade, underscoring the organization’s belief in Flagg as a franchise cornerstone. This commitment, combined with Irving’s enthusiasm, paints a picture of a unified front eager to integrate Flagg into the team.

While Irving is expected to miss a portion of the upcoming season as he recovers from an ACL tear sustained in March, his excitement for Flagg’s arrival suggests a strong desire to return and contribute to the team’s future success. The prospect of seeing Irving, Flagg, and Lively II on the court together, forming a new “Brotherhood” in Dallas, is undoubtedly thrilling for Mavericks fans.

The 2025 NBA Draft, set for June 25, will officially mark the beginning of this new chapter. For Kyrie Irving, it will be the realization of a promising future teammate and a chance to solidify a Duke legacy within the Dallas Mavericks organization. For Cooper Flagg, it will be the start of his highly anticipated NBA journey, with an established veteran and fellow Blue Devil ready to guide him. The basketball world eagerly awaits the next steps for this burgeoning brotherhood in Dallas.