Dirk Nowitzki reveals the truth that Cooper Flagg can usurp and overthrow Luka Doncic’s empire

The Dallas Mavericks find themselves at a crossroads. With Luka Dončić cemented as one of the brightest stars in the NBA, questions naturally arise about what the franchise will look like in the “Post-Dončić Era.” Will there be another generational talent ready to step up, carry the torch, and perhaps even redefine the future of the organization?

Enter Cooper Flagg, an 18-year-old prodigy whose arrival has not only sparked excitement in Dallas, but across the entire basketball world. And when Dirk Nowitzki – the legendary face of the Mavericks, an NBA champion, and future Hall of Famer – labels him “The Real Deal”, the hype surrounding Flagg’s “Superstar Potential” becomes impossible to ignore.

This article dives deep into the drama, hype, strengths, risks, and long-term expectations surrounding Cooper Flagg, weaving together insights from Dirk Nowitzki, Flagg’s background at Duke University, his Summer League performances, and the potential role he could play under head coach Jason Kidd.

The Nowitzki Endorsement: “The Real Deal”

When Dirk Nowitzki speaks, the basketball world listens. His words are not empty compliments; they carry weight forged by 21 seasons in Dallas, a 2011 NBA Championship, and a reputation as one of the most respected figures in the game.

Recently, Nowitzki didn’t hesitate to praise Cooper Flagg, calling him “The Real Deal.” This endorsement instantly elevated Flagg from a promising rookie to the centerpiece of NBA debates and media narratives.

• “The Real Deal” isn’t just hype; it signals authentic recognition of talent.

• Nowitzki highlighted Flagg’s work ethic, describing it as being “through the roof.”

• He also emphasized Flagg’s athleticism, skillset, and most importantly, his ability to read the game – something rarely seen at just 18 years old.

With these remarks, Nowitzki positioned Flagg as more than just a rookie; he positioned him as the future of the Mavericks.

Cooper Flagg at Duke: The Numbers Behind the Hype

Before making his leap to the NBA, Cooper Flagg left his mark at Duke University. His college stats not only built his draft stock but also provided a glimpse into his NBA-ready skillset.

• 19.2 points per game

• 7.5 rebounds per game

• 4.2 assists per game

• 48.1% shooting efficiency

These numbers stand out, especially when contextualized:

• Flagg demonstrated versatility, balancing scoring, rebounding, and playmaking.

• His shooting efficiency reflects strong decision-making and shot selection.

• His rebounding highlights athleticism and effort – two key traits that translate well to the NBA.

• His assists prove that he’s not just a scorer, but also someone who can facilitate and involve teammates.

Simply put, Flagg was not just dominating college basketball – he was preparing for the NBA stage.

Summer League: Proving Ground for a Prodigy

The NBA Summer League has long been the stage where rookies either prove the hype or face reality. For Cooper Flagg, it became the testing ground that confirmed Dirk Nowitzki’s words.

In just two games, Flagg displayed:

• Confident scoring ability against professional defenders.

• Off-the-ball movement, showing he understands how to fit into team systems.

• Defensive versatility, switching effectively on guards and forwards.

• Hunger to compete – he even requested to play more minutes than initially planned.

This competitive fire demonstrated his commitment to development, something that has impressed both Jason Kidd and Mavericks management.

The Post-Dončić Era: Hype and Responsibility

The phrase “Post-Dončić Era” may feel premature, but in sports, planning ahead is everything. While Luka Dončić remains the heart of the Dallas Mavericks, organizations must anticipate future scenarios.

• What happens if Dončić leaves Dallas?

• Who carries the mantle if Dončić struggles with injuries or burnout?

• How do the Mavericks prepare for a long-term rebuild without losing their fan base?

The answer increasingly circles back to Cooper Flagg.

• His youth and versatility make him the ideal candidate for a long-term franchise cornerstone.

• Comparisons to stars like Anthony Edwards and Victor Wembanyama underscore the level of expectations.

• Unlike most rookies, Flagg already has a legend’s endorsement.

The Mavericks, in essence, see Flagg as insurance for the future and hope for a dynasty.

Strengths That Define Cooper Flagg

The hype surrounding Flagg isn’t unfounded. His strengths align with what modern basketball values most.

• Athleticism: explosive vertical, lateral quickness, and agility.

• Versatility: ability to guard multiple positions, from perimeter players to forwards.

• Game IQ: rare ability to “see the game” and anticipate plays.

• Work ethic: praised by Nowitzki, scouts, and coaches alike.

• Composure: maturity beyond his years, staying focused under pressure.

• Creativity: using tools like NBA 2K26 to visualize real-game scenarios with stars like Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis.

Challenges Ahead: The Pressure of Expectations

With hype comes pressure, and Cooper Flagg is no exception.

• Unrealistic Comparisons: being likened to Dončić, Anthony Edwards, or Victor Wembanyama can be a double-edged sword.

• NBA Transition: the leap from Duke to the NBA is massive. Speed, strength, and physicality will test him immediately.

• Minutes & Role: Jason Kidd must decide how much responsibility to give him. Too much, and he risks failure; too little, and development stalls.

• Media Scrutiny: in the NBA spotlight, every mistake will be magnified.

• Fan Expectations: Dallas fans already see him as the future, meaning patience will be thin.

Jason Kidd’s Role: Guiding the Rookie

Much of Flagg’s future depends on Jason Kidd. The head coach has the responsibility of:

• Balancing Flagg’s minutes to foster growth without overwhelming him.

• Integrating Flagg with veterans like Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving.

• Designing flexible roles, potentially using Flagg as a point forward.

• Allowing mistakes – giving Flagg room to fail and learn in real time.

If handled correctly, Kidd can turn Flagg’s rookie year into the foundation of an MVP-caliber career. If mishandled, the hype could implode.

The Bigger Picture: Dallas Mavericks’ Future

The story of Cooper Flagg is not just about one player; it’s about the identity of the Dallas Mavericks.

• With Dirk Nowitzki, the Mavericks found a face of the franchise who delivered championships.

• With Luka Dončić, they found another superstar capable of carrying global attention.

• With Cooper Flagg, they may have found the bridge to the future.

This continuity – from Nowitzki to Dončić to Flagg – could define the Mavericks as one of the most successful talent-developing franchises in NBA history.

Conclusion: The Drama is Just Beginning

The NBA loves a good storyline, and the arrival of Cooper Flagg in Dallas is one of the most dramatic in recent memory. With Dirk Nowitzki proclaiming him “The Real Deal”, expectations have skyrocketed. The “Post-Dončić Era” may still be years away, but Flagg’s Superstar Potential makes it impossible not to imagine what lies ahead.

Will he rise to the challenge and become the next face of the Mavericks? Or will the weight of hype and comparisons prove too heavy for an 18-year-old?

For now, one thing is clear: all eyes in the NBA are on Dallas, and all eyes in Dallas are on Cooper Flagg.