Cooper Flagg hasn’t even stepped on an NBA court yet, but he’s already creating headlines-and not just for his elite basketball potential. Drafted No. 1 overall by the Dallas Mavericks in the 2025 NBA Draft, the 18-year-old forward is one of the most talked-about rookies entering the league.
While fans are eager to see what he brings to the court during the Las Vegas Summer League, Flagg is drawing plenty of attention off the hardwood, too-specifically for his unexpected new facial hair.
Flagg enters the NBA after a stellar season at Duke, where he averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. His efficiency and all-around game earned him comparisons to NBA stars like Kawhi Leonard, Jayson Tatum, Scottie Pippen, and even Lamar Odom.
As the Mavericks prepare for Summer League action, excitement is building around how quickly Flagg can contribute to a franchise seeking to stay competitive in the Western Conference.
Facial hair becomes a hot topic
Despite the hype surrounding his game, it’s Flagg’s goatee that has unexpectedly become a social media talking point. During the NBA Draft, fans first noticed the slight facial hair. Since then, it’s grown more noticeable-and opinions are definitely mixed.
“Goatee Flagg” quickly became a trending nickname, with some fans praising the look. One supporter commented, “That goatee adds so much aura to Cooper Flagg.”
Another joked, “Goatee Flagg may be a different animal.” However, not everyone is on board. Critics chimed in with comments like, “He’s gotta lose the goatee,” and “Goatee is not it, man.” Some even turned their attention to his hairstyle, urging him to get a “fresh fade” before his debut.
While the conversation might seem trivial, it reflects the intense spotlight young NBA stars face. Every detail, from their stat lines to their grooming choices, becomes public fodder. For Flagg, the early attention is only building his profile before he’s even played a professional game.
On the court, Dallas has high hopes for the rookie. Head coach Jason Kidd has hinted at using Flagg in multiple roles, even experimenting with him at point guard during Summer League to test his versatility and playmaking skills. That level of trust speaks volumes about his potential impact.
Whether fans are talking about his game or his goatee, one thing is clear-Cooper Flagg has already become one of the most watched players of the 2025 NBA rookie class. And when the Mavericks hit the court in Las Vegas, the attention will finally shift from style to substance.
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