The consensus across bookmakers, analysts, and insiders is clear: Duke phenom Cooper Flagg is overwhelmingly expected to be this year’s No. 1 overall pick. With the Dallas Mavericks holding the top selection, all signs point to a new era beginning in Texas.

Cooper Flagg: No. 1 Draft pick

Cooper Flagg has been the talk of the basketball world since his high school days, and his single season at Duke only heightened the hype. The 6-foot-9 forward dazzled with averages of 21.2 points, 8.9 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 2.7 blocks per game, leading the Blue Devils deep into March Madness and earning the prestigious Wooden Award.

Flagg’s versatility on both ends of the floor—his ability to defend multiple positions, protect the rim, and create offense—has drawn comparisons to NBA greats like Kevin Garnett and a young Giannis Antetokounmpo.

What sets Flagg apart is not just his physical tools, but his basketball IQ and relentless motor. NBA scouts have described him as “a queen on the chessboard,” capable of impacting the game in every facet.

According to ESPN BET, Flagg is a staggering -50000 favorite to be selected first overall, making this one of the least suspenseful top picks in recent memory. The Mavericks, who defied the odds to win the draft lottery with just a 1.8% chance, are widely expected to keep the pick and add Flagg to their roster.

Dallas Mavericks’ strategy

With the No. 1 pick in hand, Dallas has reportedly rebuffed any trade inquiries, determined to keep Flagg and build a championship contender for years to come. NBA insiders have reported that the Mavericks’ front office views Flagg as a generational talent—a player who can anchor their defense, stretch the floor, and thrive in high-pressure moments.

While Flagg’s status as the top pick seems locked in, the rest of the draft remains wide open. Rutgers guard Dylan Harper is projected as the likely No. 2 selection, praised for his size and playmaking, while Texas guard Tre Johnson and Rutgers wing Ace Bailey are also expected to be top-five picks. However, none have generated the same level of buzz or certainty as Flagg.

Draft night: beginning of a new era

While the drama at No. 1 may be lacking, the anticipation for Cooper Flagg’s NBA debut is sky-high. For the Mavericks, Flagg represents the future—a player ready to make an immediate impact and potentially transform the franchise’s fortunes.

As draft night approaches, all eyes remain on Cooper Flagg, the near-certain No. 1 pick and the face of basketball’s next generation.