The Duke Blue Devils have had more than their fair share of top players, most of whom have gone on to have long, successful NBA careers.

It didn't take long for Cooper Flagg to establish himself in the NBA Summer League. He had a lackluster first game but a dominant second, scoring 31 points on 10/20 shooting against the San Antonio Spurs and second overall pick Dylan Harper. That was enough for the Mavs, and they pulled him for the remainder of the Summer League.

To add to the accolades, Flagg won ESPN’s ESPY award for the 2025 Best Male College Athlete on Wednesday afternoon. 🏀 @DukeMBB ➡️ @dallasmavs @Cooper_Flagg takes home the @ESPYS Best College Athlete - Men's Sports award! 🏆 @MarchMadnessMBB x @MFinalFour pic.twitter.com/7jYKl1r0BK

Cooper Flagg has drawn national attention since being selected No. 1 overall by the Dallas Mavericks, but one of the NBA’s most iconic figures says the best thing the 18-year-old can do right now is take his time.

With Spencer Dinwiddie leaving the Dallas Mavericks and signing with the Charlotte Hornets, Ryan Nembhard is poised to replace him valiantly and complement Cooper Flagg beautifully.