Kyrie Irving Says Cooper Flagg Can Handle the Spotlight, Excited to See Duke Star Shine in Upcoming NBA Season
Kyrie Irving’s enthusiasm was unmistakable. When asked about his thoughts on teaming up with Cooper Flagg, the Dallas Mavericks guard didn’t hesitate. “He’s a Duke Blue Devil. I know he can deal with the pressure. I look forward to a great season,” Irving said with a wide grin, already envisioning the possibilities. That one quote resonated far beyond a typical off-season soundbite. It’s a ringing endorsement of not just Flagg’s talent, but his readiness for the unforgiving spotlight of professional basketball. And when a player of Irving’s stature—an NBA champion, Olympic gold medalist, and perennial All-Star—says something like that, it means something.
Irving, of course, understands what it’s like to arrive in the NBA with the weight of expectation. A No. 1 overall pick in 2011, he came into the league with comparisons to greats and the challenge of proving himself as the next franchise cornerstone. Flagg, a 6-foot-9 phenom from Duke, is now walking a similar path. Tabbed as a top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, he comes with the kind of hype that only a handful of players in each generation experience. But according to Irving, the rookie isn’t just prepared for it—he’s built for it.
Flagg was a standout at Duke during the 2024-25 season, combining elite athleticism with a mature all-around game that wowed scouts and captivated fans. What makes his transition into the NBA particularly fascinating is the partnership he’s forming with Irving, one of the league’s most creative and dynamic playmakers. It’s a pairing that on paper promises fireworks: Irving’s dazzling handles and court vision working in sync with Flagg’s explosive finishing ability and court sense.
The connection between the two doesn’t just come down to skill, however. There’s something deeper at play—something intangible. Irving sees in Flagg a kindred spirit, a young player who carries the Duke tradition with pride and purpose. It’s no coincidence that Irving, himself a Duke alum, mentioned their shared background in his quote. That Blue Devil bond runs strong. For Irving, it’s not just about school spirit. It’s about knowing firsthand the kind of mental and physical toughness it takes to survive—and thrive—under pressure.
At Duke, Flagg was more than just a star recruit. He was the face of a new era. His decision to reclassify and join the Blue Devils a year early turned heads, but what truly impressed observers was the poise he displayed from day one. Whether it was leading Duke to clutch wins, embracing his role as a leader, or handling the inevitable media attention, Flagg carried himself like a veteran. That demeanor, combined with his on-court brilliance, made him a can’t-miss prospect. Now, the challenge becomes adapting to the pro game, where the speed is faster, the players are stronger, and the margin for error is slimmer.
But Irving isn’t worried. In fact, he’s energized. For a veteran who has spent years shouldering responsibility—especially in high-stakes playoff moments—having a versatile and fearless running mate is a welcome development. Irving knows that the best teams blend youth and experience, hunger and wisdom. And he sees Flagg fitting seamlessly into that equation. “The kid just gets it,” Irving reportedly told a teammate during offseason workouts. “It’s like he was born to hoop.”
Those workouts have already begun generating buzz. According to team insiders, Flagg has been exceeding expectations in early scrimmages. Coaches have praised his work ethic, willingness to learn, and his ability to pick up complex schemes quickly. More importantly, they’ve noted his chemistry with Irving. The two seem to play off each other naturally, with Flagg’s instinctive movement creating opportunities for Irving to operate—and vice versa. It’s still early, of course, but the early signs are promising.
Off the court, Flagg’s maturity is just as evident. While many young stars arrive in the league overwhelmed by the sudden attention and money, Flagg has taken a grounded approach. He’s been humble in interviews, eager to credit coaches and teammates, and laser-focused on improvement. That humility, paired with an insatiable drive to be great, makes him a dream for any veteran teammate. Irving, who has seen both the highs and lows of NBA life, understands the importance of staying level-headed. And it’s clear he respects how Flagg has handled himself so far.
Flagg’s presence also brings a jolt of excitement to a Mavericks squad looking to take the next step. With Luka Dončić still the team’s centerpiece and Irving providing veteran leadership, the addition of a high-impact rookie could be the missing ingredient. Flagg’s ability to guard multiple positions, shoot from range, and finish at the rim gives Dallas a new level of flexibility. It’s the kind of addition that could elevate the Mavericks from playoff contenders to legitimate title threats.
For Flagg, the opportunity to learn alongside a player like Irving is invaluable. Despite the controversies that have dotted Irving’s career, his talent and basketball IQ are undeniable. Few players in the league can break down a defense or manipulate pace like he can. And Flagg, already a sponge for knowledge, has embraced the chance to absorb everything he can. According to team staff, he’s often the last one to leave practice, frequently picking Irving’s brain about how to handle late-game situations or how to read opposing defenses.
That mentorship dynamic is something the Mavericks are banking on. In an era where player development is more crucial than ever, pairing rookies with experienced leaders can accelerate growth. And with Irving now entering a stage in his career where legacy and leadership matter more than individual accolades, he seems fully committed to the role. In many ways, helping Flagg succeed may become one of the most rewarding chapters of his own story.
There’s also something poetic about the passing of the Duke torch from one Blue Devil to another. It’s a reminder of how college basketball’s most storied programs continue to shape the NBA’s present and future. When Irving looks at Flagg, he doesn’t just see a rookie. He sees a continuation of the tradition he once carried, now embodied in a player who could one day surpass even his own legacy.
Flagg, for his part, remains focused on the task at hand. “I know there’s a lot of talk,” he said at his introductory press conference. “But my job is to put my head down and work. I’ve got a lot to learn, and I’m just grateful to be in a situation where I have people like Kyrie around me. He’s been incredible—on and off the court. I can’t wait to get started.”
The excitement isn’t limited to just the Mavericks locker room. Around the league, Flagg’s arrival has sparked curiosity. Opposing players want to test the hype. Fans are eager to see if the highlights from Duke translate to NBA success. And analysts are already penciling him in as an early favorite for Rookie of the Year. But no matter the buzz, Irving’s confidence remains unshaken. “Pressure?” he repeated when asked again about Flagg’s ability to handle expectations. “Pressure is just part of it. If you’re built for this, you don’t run from it. And Cooper? He’s built for this.”
The journey ahead won’t be easy. Flagg will have to navigate the grind of an 82-game season, adjust to the physicality of NBA defenders, and learn to manage the highs and lows that inevitably come. But he won’t be doing it alone. He’ll have one of the league’s most seasoned stars in his corner, ready to mentor, motivate, and maybe even pass along a few tricks of the trade. For Irving, it’s not just about adding another scorer or defender. It’s about legacy—helping shape the next generation, one assist, one play, one lesson at a time.
So when Kyrie Irving says he’s looking forward to a great season, it’s not just a casual comment. It’s a prediction. A belief. A statement of intent. Cooper Flagg is coming—and with Kyrie by his side, he might just take the league by storm.
