The moment Mavericks fans and frankly, the entire basketball world have been waiting for is finally here: Cooper Flagg is officially a Dallas Maverick. The No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft put pen to paper today, signing his rookie contract and taking his first steps toward what many believe will be a franchise-altering career in the NBA.
In a playful nod to his superstardom, the Mavericks social media team shared the news with a clever caption: “Even the Mavs wanted an autograph from the NBA’s #1 overall pick.” That autograph? It’s now inked into Dallas history.
📸 The moment was captured in a photo posted by the team Flagg in full Mavs gear, Sharpie in hand, smile wide. It’s not just a signature; it’s a symbol of a new era.
A New Chapter Begins
At just 18 years old, Flagg has already been described as one of the most polished and versatile prospects in recent memory. After a dominant season at Duke, his mix of elite defense, high IQ playmaking, and quiet intensity made him a unanimous top pick. His arrival in Dallas comes at a critical time: following the blockbuster trade that sent Luka Dončić to the Lakers, the Mavs are rebuilding with eyes firmly fixed on the future.
Flagg’s rookie deal, in line with the NBA’s rookie scale for top picks, is expected to be worth around $12 million in his first year, totaling over $50 million across four years with team options. But make no mistake his value extends far beyond the numbers.
More Than a Prospect—A Foundation
“Cooper’s not just a talent he’s a culture setter,” said Mavericks GM Nico Harrison. “His work ethic, his team-first mindset, and his hunger to win are exactly what we want this franchise to stand for moving forward.”
From his viral high school highlights to his stoic dominance at Duke, Flagg has carried the weight of expectation with an almost eerie calm. Now, he walks into the heart of Texas basketball tasked with doing what legends do turn a team into a dynasty.
What Comes Next?
Training camp is just weeks away, and all eyes will be on Flagg as he joins a young core that includes Dereck Lively II, Jaden Hardy, and fellow rookie Tyler Smith. The Mavericks are expected to take a developmental approach this season, but that doesn’t mean Flagg won’t shine immediately. He’s already drawing early comparisons to elite two-way players like Kevin Garnett and Kawhi Leonard.
The journey to restore Dallas to championship relevance begins today not with a buzzer-beater, but with a signature.
Welcome to Dallas, Cooper.
The autograph may be for the contract…
…but the legacy is what you’ll be writing next. ✍🏼🔥