The Dallas Mavericks enter the 2026-27 season with renewed optimism. After the drama of the past year and a half, the confirmation that Cooper Flagg has arrived in the NBA to try to master it has steadied the franchise’s murky ecosystem and generated many expectations about where the Texas-based Mavericks could stand this year, as they aim to begin growing to build their new project. These expectations are something Dirk Nowitzki himself has sought to fuel.
The franchise legend had the opportunity to speak about Flagg during a foundation event, and, in remarks collected by Abby Jones, of DLLS Sports, he gave fans reasons to arrive at the start of the regular season with even more anticipation.
«He has had an incredible rookie season. He arrived with enormous expectations as the No. 1 pick in the Draft and he has surpassed them. He has grown week by week, month by month… He loves to work and loves basketball, so that is all he does. He wants to improve and wants to add things to his repertoire, so I think his second season will be brilliant and there are no limits for him».
Dirk also offered to serve as a mentor to the small forward in case it is necessary, something he acknowledges he has done on occasion by giving him some advice. Nevertheless, he admitted that Flagg is such a mature player for his age that perhaps there is no need for him to take on that role.
«I write to him from time to time to offer him some observations. He knows that he has my support. I want him to succeed and to go as far as possible. He is well ahead of any other player his age, but if he ever needs anything I would be happy to help.»
