Dallas Mavericks Defy Odds to Win 2025 NBA Draft Lottery
In a stunning turn of events, the Dallas Mavericks have emerged victorious in the 2025 NBA draft lottery, securing the coveted No. 1 pick. This unexpected triumph comes as a result of the Mavericks’ slim 1.8% chance of winning, a testament to the unpredictable nature of the lottery. With this win, Dallas now has the opportunity to select the consensus top player for the 2025 class, Duke’s Cooper Flagg.
Joining the Mavericks in the winner’s circle are the San Antonio Spurs, Philadelphia 76ers, and Charlotte Hornets, who secured the No. 2, 3, and 4 picks, respectively. The Spurs, with a 6.3% chance, moved up from No. 8 to No. 2, while the 76ers, with a 10.6% chance, jumped from No. 5 to No. 3. The Hornets, despite a 12% chance, dropped one spot to No. 4 but still fared well after Utah, Washington, and New Orleans fell outside the top four.
Flagg, along with 120 other players, including Dylan Harper, Derik Queen, and Walter Clayton Jr., are in Chicago this week for the NBA draft combine, G League Elite Camp, and agency pro days. Our team of ESPN draft analysts will provide updates from Wintrust Arena as draft prospects participate in drills, measurements, athletic testing, medical examinations, team interviews, and 5-on-5 scrimmaging.
Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo have shared their first mock draft post-lottery, reflecting a thorough evaluation of the 2025 class and considering intel from scouts and front office personnel.
First Round Highlights
- 1. Dallas Mavericks – Cooper Flagg, SF/PF, Duke
- 2. San Antonio Spurs – Dylan Harper, PG/SG, Rutgers
- 3. Philadelphia 76ers – Airious “Ace” Bailey, SG/SF, Rutgers
- 4. Charlotte Hornets – VJ Edgecombe, SG, Baylor
Flagg’s spot as the consensus No. 1 pick was well-earned over a stellar freshman season at Duke. His rapid improvement, versatile two-way impact, and competitive wiring at just 18 years old make him a special prospect. Some NBA scouts project Flagg as a bona fide franchise player, while others see him as an elite second star. Either way, his addition to the Mavericks is a seismic, improbable victory for the team, especially as they look to maximize their current window with veterans like Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving approaching their mid-30s.
With Irving recovering from an ACL injury, Flagg might enter the league with significant shot-creation duties, giving him a terrific opportunity to stretch himself as a playmaker and potentially blossom into an offensive star. This outcome significantly changes the fate of the Mavericks, who were staring down limbo after trading away superstar Luka Doncic.
Meanwhile, the Spurs’ move to No. 2 allows them to potentially select Dylan Harper, a sturdy playmaker with the ability to finish through contact and draw fouls. Harper’s fit alongside De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle may not be seamless, but his talent is undeniable.
The 76ers, who jumped to No. 3, have a chance to add Airious “Ace” Bailey, a wing with a combination of size, physical skill, and shooting prowess. Despite some inconsistencies, Bailey’s scoring talent is tantalizing for front offices in search of star power.
Finally, the Hornets, who landed at No. 4, could benefit from VJ Edgecombe’s defensive acumen and athletic slashing chops. Edgecombe’s ability to play with LaMelo Ball in the short term and potentially take on more significant shot-creation duties makes him a valuable addition to the roster.
As the draft approaches, teams will continue to evaluate prospects and consider their options. The lottery results have set the stage for an exciting draft, with plenty of potential for surprises and trades.
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Originally Written by: Jonathan Givony,Jeremy Woo
