NEW YORK – The 2025 NBA Draft unfolded with excitement and surprises, as Duke standout Cooper Flagg was selected first overall by the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday night. The draft, held at the Barclays Center, saw the San Antonio Spurs pick Rutgers guard Dylan Harper as the second choice, confirming pre-draft expectations.
Breaking: Cooper Flagg to Mavericks
The selection of Cooper Flagg by the Mavericks was widely anticipated, marking a significant addition to the team’s roster. Flagg, known for his exceptional skills and leadership on the court, is expected to make an immediate impact in Dallas.
Immediate Impact
The draft’s first major twist occurred when the Philadelphia 76ers, holding the third pick, opted for Baylor’s VJ Edgecombe over the speculated choice of Rutgers forward Ace Bailey. This decision set the stage for further surprises.
Key Details Emerge
The Utah Jazz made headlines by selecting Ace Bailey at the fifth position, a move that defied expectations as Bailey had not participated in pre-draft workouts. Despite this, the Jazz saw potential in Bailey’s scoring ability and talent.
Statistical Highlight: The Jazz’s decision to select Bailey at No. 5 was unexpected, as he was projected to land at No. 6 with the Washington Wizards.
Industry Response
Trades and unexpected picks characterized the draft’s first round. The Portland Trail Blazers surprised many by choosing Chinese center Yang Hansen with the 16th pick, despite his second-round projections. Meanwhile, Illinois guard Kasparas Jakučionis, a projected lottery pick, fell to the Miami Heat at No. 20.
By the Numbers
Historical Moment: The Brooklyn Nets became the first team to make five first-round selections, starting with BYU guard Egor Demin at No. 8 and concluding with Michigan center Danny Wolf at No. 27.
What Comes Next
The second round of the draft is set to continue on Thursday at 8 p.m. ET, also at the Barclays Center, promising further excitement and strategic moves.
Background Context
The Jazz’s decision to draft Bailey marks a bold move for a team seeking new talent. Utah’s additional pick, Florida guard Walter Clayton Jr., was hailed as a strategic success, bringing scoring prowess to the team.
Expert Analysis
According to draft analyst Salerno, “Bailey is a polarizing prospect, and this is worth the swing for a Utah team in need of scoring and talent.” Meanwhile, the end of Arkansas coach John Calipari’s streak of first-round picks was noted as his sole prospect, Adou Thiero, awaits a second-round call.
Regional Implications
New Orleans made a daring choice by selecting Jeremiah Fears at No. 7, just after acquiring Jordan Poole. This decision signals the Pelicans’ confidence in Fears’ potential to enhance their backcourt, despite concerns about his size.
Expert Insight: “Fears’ offensive upside is abundant, and New Orleans needed another backcourt presence,” commented analyst Cobb.
Timeline of Events
- 8:00 PM ET: Draft begins at Barclays Center.
- 8:15 PM ET: Cooper Flagg selected by Dallas Mavericks.
- 8:30 PM ET: Dylan Harper picked by San Antonio Spurs.
- 9:00 PM ET: Ace Bailey chosen by Utah Jazz.
- 10:00 PM ET: Brooklyn Nets complete historic five first-round picks.
As the draft continues, teams and fans alike anticipate further developments and strategic decisions that will shape the future of the NBA landscape.
