Officially Official”: Cooper Flagg Signs Rookie Contract with the Dallas Mavericks

The Dallas Mavericks have struck gold — and now it’s official. Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, has signed his rookie contract, marking the start of what could be a legendary professional career. Flagg’s journey from Maine prodigy to Duke phenom and now NBA centerpiece is one of grit, talent, and unprecedented hype.

A Dream Realized in Dallas

On a warm July morning in Dallas, cameras flashed and reporters crowded in as 6-foot-9 forward Cooper Flagg, dressed in a custom navy-blue suit with silver trim — Mavericks colors, of course — signed his name on the dotted line. The rookie contract, worth approximately $55 million over four years, includes all the bells and whistles expected for a No. 1 pick in the modern NBA. With the stroke of a pen, Flagg became not only a professional athlete, but also a foundational piece of a franchise hungry for more.

“I’m officially a Maverick,” Flagg said, flashing that now-famous Maine grin. “This is what I’ve worked for my whole life, and I’m ready to give everything I have to this city and this team.”

The contract makes Flagg one of the highest-paid rookies in NBA history under the new Collective Bargaining Agreement. But it’s not just about the money — it’s about the moment, the meaning, and the mission.

From Newport, Maine to NBA Stardom

Cooper Flagg’s rise is nothing short of extraordinary. Hailing from Newport, Maine, he first burst onto the national scene in middle school with his uncanny instincts, high motor, and rare two-way ability. By the time he reached Montverde Academy in Florida, he was already a household name among scouts. His viral blocks, clutch performances, and sheer willpower turned him into a can’t-miss prospect.

But it wasn’t just highlight reels that got him here. Flagg dominated at every level. His lone college season at Duke was electric — averaging 18.2 points, 9.6 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 2.7 blocks per game while leading the Blue Devils to the Final Four. He was named ACC Freshman of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year, and scouts consistently praised his leadership and maturity beyond his years.

Now, he brings that energy to the Mavericks, a team that already boasts Luka Dončić and recently re-signed star Kyrie Irving. With Flagg in the fold, the future just got a whole lot brighter in Dallas.

The Fit with Dallas

The Mavericks didn’t hesitate when their number was called at the draft. General Manager Nico Harrison and Head Coach Jason Kidd were unanimous — Flagg was the guy.

“We didn’t draft Cooper just because of what he can do now,” Harrison said. “We drafted him because of who he’s going to become. This young man is a generational competitor.”

Flagg’s defensive versatility and high-IQ offense make him an ideal fit alongside Luka Dončić. He can guard multiple positions, stretch the floor, protect the rim, and facilitate when needed. And he doesn’t need the ball to impact the game — a rare quality in today’s star culture.

Jason Kidd, himself a Hall of Fame point guard, was already imagining schemes.

“Cooper gives us options we’ve never had. We can switch everything, run him in pick-and-rolls, play him off-ball… sky’s the limit,” Kidd said.

Flagg, for his part, is embracing the opportunity to learn.

“Luka’s one of the greatest players in the game. I’m here to support, grow, and win,” Flagg said. “I’m coming in with humility, but also hunger.”

A City Ready to Embrace Its Star

Dallas is no stranger to basketball greatness. From Dirk Nowitzki’s legendary run to Luka’s nightly wizardry, Mavericks fans have been blessed with generational talents. But Cooper Flagg represents something even rarer — the bridge between eras.

The city is buzzing. Jerseys with “FLAGG 1” sold out within hours of being announced. Social media videos of Flagg practicing at the Mavericks facility have racked up millions of views. Young fans are already mimicking his signature chasedown blocks in pickup games across North Texas.

“He’s got that ‘it’ factor,” said Mavericks superfan Tony Rocha. “Dirk was the past. Luka is the present. Flagg is the future.”

The Mavericks organization is already planning “Flagg Night” at American Airlines Center for the home opener, including a giveaway of 20,000 mini flags that read: “The Cooper Era Begins.”

Rookie Expectations and Pressure

With great talent comes great expectations, and Flagg is well aware.

“I’m not running from pressure,” Flagg told reporters at his introductory press conference. “Pressure means people believe in you. I’ve got big dreams too — I want to win championships, make All-Star teams, and most importantly, represent this franchise the right way.”

NBA legends have weighed in as well.

“Cooper Flagg is the most complete prospect I’ve seen since LeBron,” said TNT analyst and Hall of Famer Charles Barkley. “But let’s see how he handles the grown man game. If he stays humble and keeps working, he’ll be a problem for the next 15 years.”

Even LeBron James posted a congratulatory message on Instagram:
“Young King signed his deal. Keep chasing greatness @cooperflagg #Respect”

A Strong Summer League Ahead

Before the real season starts, Flagg will debut in the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. The Mavericks’ opening game is already scheduled as a primetime event on ESPN. The NBA clearly knows what it has on its hands.

Flagg is expected to lead the Summer League team alongside second-year guard Jaden Hardy and a mix of rookies and G-League talents. Coaches say he’s already taken a leadership role in practice.

“He walks into a room, and everyone follows him,” said Mavericks Summer League coach Jared Dudley. “He’s not loud, but when he talks, it hits. That’s leadership.”

The basketball world will be watching every minute.

More Than Basketball: Flagg’s Off-Court Presence

Cooper Flagg’s impact will go beyond basketball. Known for his humility, community outreach, and positive attitude, Flagg is already involved in launching a youth foundation based in both Dallas and Maine. The “Flagg Foundation” will focus on youth mentorship, access to sports programs in rural areas, and mental health advocacy.

“Basketball gave me purpose,” Flagg said. “I want to help others find theirs.”

He’s also inked endorsement deals with Nike, Gatorade, and Beats by Dre — all reportedly exceeding $20 million combined. His Nike ad, titled “From the Pines to the Paint,” debuted the same day he signed his contract and went viral within hours.

Luka + Flagg: The NBA’s Next Great Duo?

Basketball purists and fans alike are salivating at the potential pairing of Luka Dončić and Cooper Flagg. One is a wizard with the ball, the other a disruptor who can play both ends at an elite level. If Flagg reaches even 75% of his projected ceiling, the Mavericks could become a perennial championship contender.

“We’re not here to wait five years,” Flagg said confidently. “We want to win now.”

Dončić welcomed him warmly.

“Big-time talent. Big-time energy. I’m excited to go to war with him,” Luka said in a team press release.

The NBA has already begun scheduling marquee games featuring Dallas — including a Christmas Day showdown against the Boston Celtics, and a preseason exhibition in Abu Dhabi that will feature Flagg’s first international Mavericks appearance.

Final Thoughts: The Start of Something Special

July 3, 2025, will go down in Dallas Mavericks history as the day everything changed. With Cooper Flagg’s signature, the Mavericks didn’t just add a player — they launched a new era. One built on youth, intensity, defense, versatility, and a relentless desire to win.

“I know what this means,” Flagg said, holding up his Mavericks jersey for the cameras. “I’m ready to work. Let’s build something great — together.”

Welcome to the NBA, Cooper Flagg.

The journey has only just begun.

Projected Rookie Stats (2025–26):