The Dallas Mavericks made headlines by selecting 18-year-old Cooper Flagg as the number one overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Flagg, a standout freshman from Duke University, became the second-youngest player ever to be drafted first, just eight days older than LeBron James was when he was picked in 2003. Dallas secured the top spot in the draft through the lottery despite having only a 1.8 percent chance, following a 10th-place finish in the Western Conference.
Flagg impressed scouts and fans alike during his single season at Duke, where he averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game. He played a major role in taking Duke to the NCAA Final Four and ended the season by winning the prestigious Wooden Award, given to the best college basketball player in the country. He was also named the Atlantic Coast Conference Rookie of the Year.
This marks only the second time in franchise history that the Mavericks have held the number one pick. The last was in 1981 when they selected Mark Aguirre. Flagg, who plays as a shooting guard and small forward, expressed joy and excitement after being drafted, calling it “a dream come true.”
Following Cooper Flagg, the San Antonio Spurs used the second overall pick to draft Dylan Harper, a 19-year-old guard and son of five-time NBA champion Ron Harper. Harper, whose brother Ron Harper Jr. plays for the Detroit Pistons, was emotional after being picked. He said he felt “everything at once” and looked forward to contributing to San Antonio’s young and promising roster.
With the third pick, the Philadelphia 76ers selected VJ Edgecombe, a standout freshman from Baylor University. Originally from the Bahamas, Edgecombe averaged 15 points and 5.6 rebounds per game and was named the Big 12 Freshman of the Year. His athleticism and scoring ability made him a highly sought-after prospect.
The Charlotte Hornets rounded out the top four by selecting guard Kon Knueppel, another versatile backcourt player with high-level shooting and playmaking skills. These picks highlight the depth of talent in the 2025 draft class and reflect the NBA’s continued focus on youth, development, and potential.
Each of the top prospects brings unique skills and backgrounds to their new teams, setting the stage for an exciting future in the league. With young stars joining teams across the league, the 2025-2026 season promises to be one to watch.
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