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Cooper Flagg

Cooper Flagg is an American professional basketball player for the Dallas Mavericks.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Cooper Flagg is an American professional basketball player for the Dallas Mavericks. Born in Newport, Maine, he rose from high-school stardom to Duke University, where he was widely regarded as one of the top players in college basketball before being selected first overall in the 2025 NBA draft.

Early life and high school career

Flagg was born in Newport, Maine, and emerged as a standout at Nokomis Regional High School. He later transferred to Montverde Academy, one of the United States' most prominent basketball programs.

College career

Flagg played one season for Duke University and was widely considered one of the best players in the country. His freshman season included major national recognition and helped Duke reach the Final Four.

NBA career

Flagg was selected first overall by the Dallas Mavericks in the 2025 NBA draft. He entered the league as a highly touted prospect after a dominant college season.

Playing style

Flagg is described as a versatile forward with strong defensive instincts and playmaking ability. His game has been noted for blocking shots, rebounding, scoring across multiple levels, and guarding several positions.

Key facts

  • Flagg played college basketball for the Duke Blue Devils.
  • He was selected first overall in the 2025 NBA draft by the Dallas Mavericks.
  • He is known for two-way play, including shot blocking, rebounding, scoring and playmaking.
  • He attended Nokomis Regional High School in Maine and Montverde Academy in Florida.
  • He reclassified to enter college early and played one season at Duke.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Cooper Flagg?
Cooper Flagg is an American basketball player and forward for the Dallas Mavericks, drafted first overall in 2025 after one college season at Duke.
Where was Cooper Flagg born?
He was born in Newport, Maine, United States.
Which college did Cooper Flagg attend?
He played college basketball for Duke University.
When was Cooper Flagg drafted into the NBA?
He was selected first overall in the 2025 NBA draft by the Dallas Mavericks.
What position does Cooper Flagg play?
He is listed as a forward.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Cooper-Flagg
    Supports: Birth date and place, nationality, height, draft status, and general biographical overview.
  2. ESPN — https://www.espn.com/nba/player/_/id/5041939/cooper-flagg
    Supports: Current team, position, height/weight, college, birthdate, and draft information.
  3. NBA — https://www.nba.com/player/1642843/cooper-flagg
    Supports: Official player profile including team, height, weight, country, college, age, birthdate, and draft details.
  4. NBA — https://www.nba.com/draft/2025/prospects/cooper-flagg
    Supports: High-school and college achievements, draft context, and statistical profile.
  5. Team USA — https://www.teamusa.com/profiles/cooper-flagg
    Supports: Hometown, sport, specialty, and youth basketball background.