The greatest ever to wear a Dallas Mavericks uniform had nothing but great words to say about the franchise’s potential next GOAT. With Cooper Flagg winning the 2025-26 NBA Rookie of the Year Award, Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki shared his admittedly biased take on the Mavs youngster’s impressive first year in the Association.
“I watched Cooper all year long. The stuff he had to deal with early, with all the negativity around and the booing. There was a lot happening that whole season,” Nowitzki, who is now working as an analyst on NBA on Prime Video, said on Wednesday.
“Started at point guard at 6’9”, something he’s never done. To me, he’s had an incredible year. He had a 50-ball, he had a 40-ball [and] a couple of 30-balls. He led the team in points, rebounds, assists and steals…Well deserved, Cooper. We’re proud of you.”
Dirk on Cooper Flagg winning ROY:
— NBA Courtside (@NBA__Courtside) April 29, 2026
"I watched Cooper all year long. The stuff he had to deal with early with all the negativity around and the booing. There was a lot happening that whole season… Started at PG at 6'9 something he's never done…. Historic numbers as a teenager.… pic.twitter.com/d9lLTtf3bf
The Mavericks had a tough 2025-26 campaign, as they won just 26 games. But Flagg gave Dallas and its fans a reason to hope that the team will get to enjoy success sooner rather than later.
Flagg has also made the process of moving on from the staggering Luka Doncic trade much easier for Mavericks supporters. During his rookie season, Flagg averaged 21.0 points, 6.7 rebounds and 4.5 assists through 70 games. He still has a lot of room for improvement, including his offensive efficiency after posting an effective field goal percentage of 49.8%.
Nowitzki sees greatness in Flagg, and winning the Wilt Chamberlain Trophy was a clear indication of future superstardom for the 2025 No. 1 overall draft pick.
