** Mavericks Select Cooper Flagg First Overall in 2025 NBA Draft

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The anticipation surrounding the 2025 NBA Draft reached a fever pitch as the Dallas Mavericks made headlines by selecting standout prospect Cooper Flagg from Duke University with the first overall pick. This draft, held on June 27, 2025, was filled with excitement, strategic trades, and a plethora of talent ready to make their mark in the league.

According to the NBA, Flagg’s selection underscores the Mavericks’ commitment to building a championship-caliber roster. At just 18 years old, the versatile forward is expected to inject fresh energy and skill into Dallas’s lineup. Flagg’s exceptional performance in college, where he showcased his ability to score, rebound, and facilitate, made him the consensus top pick among scouts and analysts alike.

The San Antonio Spurs followed suit by choosing Dylan Harper from Rutgers as the second overall selection. Harper, a dynamic guard, has been lauded for his scoring prowess and playmaking ability, making him a valuable addition to the Spurs as they look to rebuild and return to playoff contention.

The Philadelphia 76ers made headlines by selecting VJ Edgecombe from Baylor at the third spot. Edgecombe’s combination of athleticism and shooting ability has drawn comparisons to some of the league’s elite guards. As reported by the NBA, he is expected to be a cornerstone player for Philadelphia moving forward.

As the first round progressed, several other teams made notable picks. The Charlotte Hornets opted for Kon Knueppel, another Duke product, while the Utah Jazz chose Ace Bailey from Rutgers, further emphasizing their focus on acquiring young talent. The Washington Wizards selected Tre Johnson from Texas, aiming to enhance their backcourt with Johnson’s scoring capabilities.

Among the most intriguing moves of the night was the Houston Rockets’ decision to draft Khaman Maluach from Duke, who was immediately traded to the Phoenix Suns. The Rockets are clearly focused on reshaping their roster for a brighter future, and this trade reflects their strategy of acquiring established talent while fostering a competitive environment.

The draft also saw several trades that shifted the landscape for multiple franchises. The Portland Trail Blazers picked Cedric Coward from Washington State, only to trade him to the Memphis Grizzlies shortly thereafter. Similarly, the Atlanta Hawks selected Derik Queen from Maryland, who will now be heading to New Orleans as part of a trade deal.

The first round concluded with a mix of talent from colleges across the nation, including selections from Arizona, Georgetown, and even international prospects. Notably, the Timberwolves and Grizzlies made strategic moves that could pay dividends in the long run.

As reported by the NBA, this draft class is considered one of the deepest in recent memory, with each team eager to find the next superstar. The 2025 NBA Draft not only showcased the emerging talents of tomorrow but also set the stage for the upcoming season, as teams look to integrate these new players into their systems.

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