The Dallas Mavericks have been in search of a new identity ever since Luka Doncic was traded. Losing a player of his caliber inevitably creates a massive void.

The Dallas Mavericks are trying to build a team with defense as its primary identity. Cooper Flagg, the team's No. 1 overall pick, will have to be part of that

DALLAS - Dallas Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison has made his team-building philosophy clear: Prioritize players who can make significant contributions

Flagg was the consensus top prospect in the year's NBA Draft, and was seen by many evaluators as the best American prospect since Anthony Davis in 2012. So when the Mavericks magically won the lottery to take him first overall, it was obvious they had a special opportunity.

Naji Marshall is convinced that the Dallas Mavericks struck gold with Cooper Flagg. And after watching two Summer League games, the five-year journeyman can’t wait to share the NBA court with him soon.

To add to the accolades, Flagg won ESPN’s ESPY award for the 2025 Best Male College Athlete on Wednesday afternoon. 🏀 @DukeMBB ➡️ @dallasmavs @Cooper_Flagg takes home the @ESPYS Best College Athlete - Men's Sports award! 🏆 @MarchMadnessMBB x @MFinalFour pic.twitter.com/7jYKl1r0BK

With Spencer Dinwiddie leaving the Dallas Mavericks and signing with the Charlotte Hornets, Ryan Nembhard is poised to replace him valiantly and complement Cooper Flagg beautifully.