Cooper Flagg appears to be on the verge of joining the NBA as the Dallas Mavericks secured the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, following the annual Draft Lottery held in Chicago. Despite having just a 1.8% chance of winning the top pick after finishing the season with a 39-43 record, the Mavericks emerged victorious, particularly notable after they traded Luka Dončić to the Lakers prior to the trade deadline.
Flagg, a standout two-way forward from Duke, is anticipated to be the Mavericks’ selection, having come close to sweeping the National Player of the Year awards during his collegiate career. The Draft Lottery itself was eventful, with the Mavericks, Philadelphia 76ers, and San Antonio Spurs all surprising by landing in the top four, while teams like the Wizards, Jazz, Pelicans, and Nets saw their fortunes decline.
The Spurs will hold the No. 2 pick, the 76ers will select third, and the Charlotte Hornets claim the fourth position. The remaining picks for teams not involved in the playoffs will fill positions 5-14 based on their regular-season records. Meanwhile, playoff teams will determine picks 15-30 in a similar manner.
Additionally, due to a forfeited pick from a 2022 tampering investigation, the draft will consist of only 59 total selections. The New York Knicks forfeited their spot after being found guilty of violating league rules while signing Jalen Brunson, though the team’s success with him suggests they remain optimistic.
As the draft approaches, with notable potential trades anticipated, the Brooklyn Nets lead with the most first-round picks, securing four opportunities to draft players. The 2025 NBA Draft will take place in New York, beginning on June 25 at the Barclays Center for the first round, followed by the second round on June 26. With considerable excitement surrounding Flagg and the potential for team shake-ups, the draft is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for NBA franchises.