6 days ago
Former Dallas Maverick Piles on Praise for Cooper Flagg
Former Dallas Maverick Piles on Praise for Cooper Flagg originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
At this point, there isn't a lot to say about Cooper Flagg that hasn't already been said.
Former players and experts alike have compared him to Kevin Garnett, Scottie Pippen, Grant Hill, and even Magic Johnson and Tim Duncan.
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The Dallas Mavericks got a generational talent with the first overall pick, and former players are thrilled about the direction he can take the franchise.
"I think he's pro-ready," said former Maverick Charlie Villanueva. "He struggled a little bit in the first game, but that's part of the process. But I think he's gonna be a phenomenal player and I can't wait to see him on the Mavs uniform."
Villanueva played his final two NBA seasons in Dallas, averaging 5.7 points from 2014-16. He readily admits that watching Dallas struggle last season was hard, although he likely understands that it was the fault of the front office, who are rightfully to blame for losing Luka Doncic.
Even with the bitter taste from last season still in his mouth, Villanueva is thrilled about what this year could hold.
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"Having Cooper Flagg, picking up D'Angelo Russell, those were amazing pickups, and I think the Mavs' future is very bright," he added.
With Flagg, Anthony Davis, and Klay Thompson leading the way, with Kyrie Irving possibly going to be added to the active roster in time for the postseason, the Mavericks are legitimate title threats, and Flagg is expected to be at the center of their success, perhaps vindicating the franchise for the way it was run last season.
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 15, 2025, where it first appeared.
