Dirk Nowitzki, the Dallas Mavericks icon, recently expressed his excitement about the team’s new rookie, Cooper Flagg, during his annual Dirk Nowitzki Foundation Tennis Classic held on September 13 at T Bar M. This event, which combined philanthropy with competitive spirit, also provided Mavericks fans a glimpse of what Flagg brings to the table as the team navigates a new era following Luka Doncic’s departure.
Nowitzki, although not a regular follower of college basketball, felt compelled to evaluate Flagg after the buzz surrounding him became undeniable. His assessment of the young player was overwhelmingly positive. “I had to check out Cooper. The sky’s the limit, honestly,” Nowitzki shared in an interview with The Dallas Morning News. He noted Flagg’s impressive basketball IQ, especially for someone who is just 18 years old. “The way he reads the game at such a young age and his athletic skills are remarkable. I’ve heard his work ethic is through the roof.”
What truly stood out to Nowitzki was Flagg’s versatility on the court. “He can score in multiple ways and defend various players, which is rare for someone so young,” he remarked. With the Mavericks looking to build a new identity, Nowitzki’s enthusiasm for Flagg’s potential offers a hopeful perspective for fans eager to see how the rookie will adapt to the NBA. “I’m looking forward to his rookie year and seeing how he can adjust to the NBA. If everything goes well and he keeps working, I think the sky’s the limit.”
The transition from Doncic to Flagg has sparked discussions among fans and analysts alike. Some observers noted that Nowitzki’s praise for Flagg’s defensive skills and work ethic served as a subtle contrast to Doncic’s tenure in Dallas. During his time with the Mavericks, Doncic faced criticism for his defensive play, with many analysts pointing out issues such as slow rotations and a lack of effort on defense. This scrutiny culminated in a trade to the Los Angeles Lakers earlier this year, raising questions about his commitment to improvement.
Despite the criticism, Doncic has made strides in reshaping his defensive reputation. His recent weight loss and standout performances at EuroBasket 2025 have garnered praise, with European media recognizing him as one of the tournament’s most improved defenders. This evolution in his game has sparked renewed discussions about his potential and future in the league.
As the Mavericks embark on this new chapter, the spotlight shifts to Flagg, who is poised to make his mark in the NBA. With Nowitzki’s endorsement and the excitement surrounding his arrival, Mavericks fans have much to look forward to in the upcoming season. The combination of Flagg’s talent and work ethic could signal a bright future for the franchise as they seek to redefine their identity post-Doncic.
In the coming months, all eyes will be on Flagg as he navigates the challenges of his rookie season and attempts to fulfill the high expectations set by Nowitzki and the Mavericks’ fanbase. The potential for growth and success is palpable, and the Mavericks are ready to embrace this new era with optimism and hope.