Cooper Flagg's real reaction to Mavericks winning first overall pick revealed

Flagg may have been shocked at the Lottery's results, but he did a good of hiding his real emotions.

Apr 5, 2025; San Antonio, TX, USA; Duke Blue Devils forward Cooper Flagg (2) reacts after a play against the Houston Cougars 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 | Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Monday's draft lottery for the 2025 NBA Draft proved one of the most shocking in NBA history as the Dallas Mavericks won the first overall pick on 1.8% odds. That puts them in a prime position to select Cooper Flagg, who some scouts are calling the most well-rounded prospect they've ever seen.

Flagg did well to hide his emotions at the surprising turn of events, showing a little shock on his face, but he otherwise did well to hide his feelings. When he was brought onto the ESPN broadcast, he deflected all questions, only saying that he was going to enjoy the process and that he had been dreaming of this moment his whole life.

READ MORE: NBA insider reveals chances Mavericks trade Cooper Flagg pick

May 12, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, US; Duke players L-R Kon Knueppel and Cooper Flagg, during the 2025 NBA Draft Lottery at McCormick Place. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images | David Banks-Imagn Images

But with the NBA Combine being held in Chicago, the same place as the Lottery, word travels fast. And ESPN's Jonathan Givony caught wind of Cooper Flagg's initial reaction to the Mavericks winning the Lottery.

"Though Flagg initially looked shocked by the results of Monday's draft lottery, sources told ESPN that his camp realized how fortunate he is to land in Dallas. Flagg is said to be thrilled by the idea of joining a playoff-caliber roster with strong veterans and a team that has a void at the small forward position. The Mavericks have a need for shot creators and will need Flagg to shoulder significant offensive responsibility as a rookie (similar to what we saw at Duke), which will be great for his long-term development."

The phrase "void at the small forward position" is interesting. Dallas currently has P.J. Washington slated to be its starting small forward, but it was clear that it was out of position for him. He's entering the last year of his contract, and with a logjam of forwards, he could be one of the players on the move to secure a better playmaker until Kyrie Irving returns from his injury.

Nonetheless, Flagg is excited to be in Dallas, and he'll have two former Duke stars flanking him in Irving and Dereck Lively II. And that alone should excite Mavs fans even more.

READ MORE: ESPN NBA analyst believes Mavericks should trade Cooper Flagg pick for superstar

Stick with MavericksGameday for more FREE coverage of the Dallas Mavericks throughout the offseason

Follow MavericksGameday on Twitter and Austin Veazey on Twitter

More Dallas Mavericks News

• Mavericks land first overall pick in 2025 NBA Draft

• Mavericks linked with Lakers on trade to reunite Luka Doncic with $40 million center

• Mavericks make multiple staff changes after tumultuous season

• Duke star Cooper Flagg reacts to Mavericks landing first pick in 2025 NBA Draft