Dallas Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki hosted his annual Dirk Nowitzki Foundation Tennis Classic on September 13 at Banner House at T Bar M.
The event blended philanthropy, competition, and conversation, with Cooper Flagg taking part in the spotlight alongside the 47-year-old legend.
For Nowitzki, it was also an opportunity to give Mavericks fans a first-hand impression of their new top pick.
Dirk gives his early verdict on Flagg
Though he admitted he is not a devoted follower of college basketball, Nowitzki said he felt compelled to take a closer look at Flagg after the excitement surrounding him became impossible to ignore. His evaluation was glowing.
“I had to check out Cooper. The sky’s the limit, honestly,” Nowitzki said in an interview with The Dallas Morning News.
“What I saw, the way he reads the game already at that age, being barely 18, and his athletic skills, I heard his work ethic is through the roof.
“Everything that I saw and heard is that he’s the real deal. The Mavs fans can obviously be very excited for his growth over the next few years.”
Nowitzki added that what impressed him most was Flagg‘s ability to contribute in every area of the game.
“Just the way he can score the ball in multiple ways and defend multiple players shows he’s super versatile already at his super young age, which is rare,” Nowitzki said.
“I’m looking forward to his rookie year and seeing how he can adjust to the NBA. Like I said, if everything goes well and he keeps working, I think the sky’s the limit.”
Comparisons with Doncic
Some observers saw more than just compliments for Flagg in Nowitzki‘s words. His emphasis on defensive ability and tireless preparation stood in contrast to Luka Doncic, whose defensive shortcomings were frequently criticized during his tenure in Dallas.
Last season, Doncic was called out for slow rotations, poor effort on the ball, and lapses in transition defense.
Former stars such as Gary Payton argued that his issues were more about mindset than physical limitations, while ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins labeled him the weakest defender among today’s elite players.
The Mavericks‘ front office itself reportedly questioned Doncic‘s commitment before trading him to the Lakers earlier this year.
Still, Doncic has pushed back against that perception. His recent 31-pound weight loss and standout defensive showing at EuroBasket 2025 reshaped the conversation.
European media hailed him as one of the event’s most improved defenders, a far cry from his reputation in the NBA.
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