The Golden State Warriors superstar congratulated Cooper Flagg after being selected first overall.
On June 27, 2025, the Dallas Mavericks introduced Cooper Flagg, the first overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, to the Dallas media at their practice facility. The 17-year-old phenom, already a household name in basketball circles, stepped into the spotlight as one of the most hyped prospects in recent NBA history, drawing comparisons to the likes of Victor Wembanyama and Zion Williamson. Flagg’s journey to this moment has been nothing short of remarkable, and his historic draft night was capped by an emotional moment that left him stunned—a six-word direct message from none other than Golden State Warriors superstar Stephen Curry.
A Star-Studded Path to the NBA
Flagg’s rise to prominence has been meteoric. For years, his name has been synonymous with the future of basketball. His standout performances at high-profile camps and his time with the USA Select Team during Team USA’s Olympic practices showcased his ability to compete with the best, even as a teenager. Notably, Flagg held his own against NBA superstars, including a memorable moment where he hit a shot over Anthony Davis, a feat Davis playfully referenced in a congratulatory video posted by the Mavericks, jokingly vowing to get his revenge.
Among the many camps Flagg attended was Stephen Curry’s prestigious Curry Camp, a breeding ground for young talent. The camp, known for its intense training and mentorship from one of the game’s greatest shooters, left a lasting impression on Flagg. Little did he know that Curry was watching his journey closely.
Curry’s Emotional Message
Following Flagg’s selection as the No. 1 overall pick, Curry took to his Instagram story to share a heartfelt moment. Posting a picture of himself with Flagg at Curry Camp, the Warriors star added a simple yet powerful caption: “Curry Camp -> NBA. Let’s get it!!” The six-word message was a nod to Flagg’s hard work and a personal congratulations from one of basketball’s biggest icons.
Steph Curry felicitó a Cooper Flagg, que en el pasado participó del campus de entrenamiento de Steph, por su llegada a la NBA📸 pic.twitter.com/KZU1IqaOcm
— GSWL (@WarriorsLatam_) June 27, 2025
Flagg, speaking to reporters in Dallas, admitted he was floored by Curry’s gesture. “Seeing that message from Steph, someone I’ve looked up to for so long, it’s surreal,” Flagg said. “Curry Camp was such a big moment for me, and to have him acknowledge this moment—it means everything.”
Dallas Welcomes Its New Star
The Mavericks’ press conference was a mix of excitement and candid moments. Flagg, with his trademark humility, raised eyebrows when he admitted he hadn’t seen highlights of his new coach, Jason Kidd, a Hall of Fame point guard. Meanwhile, Mavericks GM Nico Harrison spoke confidently about the organization’s vision, though some noted the team’s fortunate luck in landing Flagg in the draft lottery.
The young forward’s arrival has already generated buzz among his new teammates. P.J. Washington dismissed concerns about their fit on the court, expressing confidence that they could complement each other seamlessly. Kyrie Irving, another Mavericks star, narrated a hype video for Flagg during the draft, signaling the team’s high expectations for their new cornerstone.
A Bright Future Ahead
Flagg’s draft night was a culmination of years of preparation, from dominating high school courts to shining against NBA veterans. His ability to earn the respect of players like Curry, Davis, and Irving at such a young age speaks to his immense potential. As he steps into the NBA with the Mavericks, Flagg carries not only the weight of expectations but also the support of basketball’s biggest names.
Curry’s six-word DM may have been brief, but its impact was profound. For Flagg, it was a reminder of how far he’s come—and a motivator for the journey ahead. As he embarks on his NBA career, the basketball world is watching, and if his past is any indication, Cooper Flagg is ready to deliver.
Flagg already has the respect of many of the NBA’s stars. Even in Anthony Davis’ congratulatory video that the Mavericks posted, he mentioned Flagg hitting a shot over him at Team USA camp last year that Davis needs to get him back for. Potential concerns about fit with P.J. Washington were immediately denied by Washington, who thinks they can fit in well together. And Kyrie Irving narrated the hype video that Dallas posted during the Draft.