Kyrie Irving and Cooper Flagg. Photo credits: Imagn

'A Duke Blue Devil': Kyrie Irving Speaks Out On Cooper Flagg Connection And Tandem In Dallas

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Dan Agulto | Last updated Jun 11, 2025 12:36 PM ET

Kyrie Irving might be rehabbing an ACL injury, but that didn’t stop him from sending some serious love to Duke sensation Cooper Flagg—who could very well be his new teammate soon.

With the Mavericks landing the No. 1 pick in this year’s NBA Draft, it’s looking more and more likely that Flagg will be heading to Dallas. And Kyrie, a proud Duke alum himself, is already rolling out the welcome mat.

“We’re definitely connected,” Kyrie Irving said. “He’s a Duke Blue Devil. I know he can handle the pressure, and I’m excited to watch him go off—not just him, but all the young guys coming up. The future is y’all’s!”

The Mavs have made it no secret they’re high on Flagg—especially after shipping Luka Dončić to the Lakers in a blockbuster move. This pick could mark a full-on new chapter for the franchise. And with guys like Dereck Lively II (also a Duke product) already on the roster, the Blue Devil reunion in Dallas is real.

As for Flagg, the hype is legit. He led Duke to the No. 1 spot in the NCAA tourney, averaging 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and showing off on both ends of the court. Oh—and he cleaned house with awards too: Naismith, Wooden, ACC Player of the Year, and more. The kid’s not just ready for the league—he’s ready to leave a mark.

Feb 21, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving (11) looks on after he makes a three point shot against the New Orleans Pelicans during the second half at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

“You’re One of Them Ones”: Kyrie Irving Shows Big Love to Michael Beasley After $100K 1-on-1 Win

Kyrie Irving wasn’t just showing love to the future—he took a moment to salute the past too.

Mar 3, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Sacramento Kings guard Malik Monk (0) looks to move the ball past Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving (11) during the first quarter at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

After Michael Beasley took down Lance Stephenson in “The Next Chapter” 1-on-1 showdown and secured the $100K bag, Kyrie Irving—who was on the mic doing commentary—gave him a heartfelt shoutout that had everyone nodding in respect.

“Man, I’m just glad you’re still here, still standing,” Kyrie said. “You’ve been an example for our culture. You’ve been an example for me. I just wanna give you your flowers now. A lotta people don’t know your story… You’re one of them ones, bro.”

It was one of those genuine moments you rarely get to see—player to player, soul to soul.

As for Kyrie Irving, he’s still on the mend after tearing his ACL earlier this year, but he’s expected to be back next season. And if the Mavs do land Flagg like everyone’s expecting, Kyrie could be gearing up to help lead the league’s next dynamic duo.

This article first appeared on Hardwood Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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