Dallas Mavericks Reporter Has Detailed Review of Cooper Flagg's Apr 5, 2025; San Antonio, TX, USA; Duke Blue Devils forward Cooper Flagg (2) walks off the court after losing to the Houston Cougars in the semifinals of the men’s Final Four of the 2025 NCAA Tournament at the Alamodome. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images

'It’s Kind Of A Weird Name': Cooper Flagg Drops Honest Reaction on His New Dallas Mavericks Nickname

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Jordan Samar | Last updated Jun 26, 2025 10:55 AM ET

Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg made it clear he is not feeling his new nickname during his draft night interview with Taylor Rooks. The former Duke Blue Devils forward had the “The Maine Event” moniker since he is from Newport, Maine. However, as cool as it sounds, Flagg called it a “weird” nickname.

“I don’t know, I think it’s kind of a weird name for someone to call me,” Flagg said bluntly. “But I think it’s kind of cool for social media.”

At 18 years and 186 days, Flagg became the second youngest first overall pick in NBA Draft history, behind LeBron James (18 years, 178 days), who was selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2003.

Apr 5, 2025; San Antonio, TX, USA; Duke Blue Devils forward Cooper Flagg (2) controls the ball against Houston Cougars forward J’Wan Roberts (13) during the second half in the semifinals of the men’s Final Four of the 2025 NCAA Tournament at the Alamodome. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Unlike most of his draft classmates, Flagg comes into a situation where the team has championship aspirations. Dallas Mavericks fans are excited about what he’ll bring to the table, playing alongside Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving.

Dallas Mavericks News: Cooper Flagg describes his play style

The Dallas Mavericks took Cooper Flagg because of his immense potential. He’s a terrific all-around player who can score from anywhere, and he’s also capable of playing defense at a high level with his athleticism and size.

Mar 29, 2025; Newark, NJ, USA; Duke Blue Devils forward Cooper Flagg (2) cheers as the Duke Blue Devils cuts down the nets after beating the Alabama Crimson Tide in the East Regional final of the 2025 NCAA tournament at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images

“I would say it’s pretty versatile. The biggest thing I was always proud of myself for was making a lot of different winning plays all around the court and doing a ton of different things to impact winning. Give my team the best chance possible. So, I’d just say, it’s my versatility on both ends of the ball,” Flagg said about his play style via NBA TV.

Before joining the Dallas Mavericks, Flagg averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game on 48.1 percent shooting from the field and 38.5 percent from three-point land for the Duke Blue Devils.