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23h ago

Dirk Nowitzki Calls Cooper Flagg ‘The Real Deal’ as Mavericks Buzz Grows

Matt Barnes says a healthy Dallas roster could represent the West in the Finals.

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Dirk Nowitzki watches the game between the Dallas Wings and the Seattle Storm during the first half at College Park Center
September 14, 2025
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Overview

  • Nowitzki met Flagg at his foundation event on Sept. 13 and praised his game reading, athleticism and work ethic, saying the hype is real and the sky is the limit.
  • The Mavericks posted video of Nowitzki and Flagg embracing, underscoring the franchise’s effort to bring the No. 1 pick into the fold ahead of training camp on Sept. 30.
  • Barnes highlighted Flagg’s motor and defensive versatility, suggesting he could guard multiple positions and likening his potential to elite multi-positional stoppers.
  • Barnes emphasized Anthony Davis’ availability as crucial and noted Kyrie Irving is still rehabbing an ACL tear with no official return timetable.
  • Flagg is projected for a significant role after standout production at Duke and a 31-point Summer League game, with Dallas set to open preseason on Oct. 6.