‘He’s a workaholic’ – Dirk Nowitzki gives his analysis on Cooper Flagg’s rookie season and future potential

Dallas Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki has shared what he felt about Cooper Flagg 's rookie season, and what the future has in store for the 2025 number one overall pick.

Last year, Flagg was drafted after the franchise had lost its superstar Luka Doncic due to a decision made by Nico Harrison, who was fired from his role following a poor start to the 2025-26 season by the Mavs.

There was a lot of hype around him, as he had been a solid player throughout high school and college. He certainly lived up to it, averaging 21 points per game and 6.7 rebounds as a rookie.

With the team not playing well, Flagg was the only bright light for the Mavs.

Dirk Nowitzki, who serves as a special advisor for the Mavs, revealed the conversations he had with the rookie during his first year.

With the departure of Doncic, the reins of the team are now with Flagg, and he has shown the talent to carry the franchise for the coming years.

Nowitzki, who did the same for two decades, spoke about the player, and what made him special.

"He's had a terrific first season," Nowitzki told reporters at his foundation event, according to Abby Jones of DLLS Sports . "The hype that he had as a No. 1 pick, to basically live through that and exceed that hype, has been incredible to watch in Year 1.

"How he got better from week-to-week, from month-to-month. We all know he's a workaholic, loves hoops. That's all he does. He wants to get better, he wants to add things to his repertoire. So, I think he's gonna have a great second season and sky is the limit for him. Hopefully, we can watch him for the next decade plus."

Initially, the Mavs had Flagg play primarily as a point guard, something Jason Kidd was trying out which resulted in them having a poor start to the season.

As the season progressed, though, Flagg's confidence grew, and he delivered some big performances. The rookie also reached out to Nowitzki and asked for advice.

"I'll write him a few things when I see something," Nowitzki said.

"He knows that I'm in his corner. I want him to succeed and do well, but like I said, he's so far ahead of the curve already at that age. But if there's ever anything that he needs, I'm more than happy to help."