In a recorded discussion between journalists from the Dallas Morning News and the Portland Press Herald, we break down the past, present and future of Cooper Flagg, the 18-year-old basketball star from Maine who was recently drafted No. 1 overall into the NBA by the Mavericks.

The conversation, recorded last week, was moderated by Dallas Morning News sports journalist Brad Townsend. He was joined by Portland Press Herald sports journalists Travis Lazarczyk and Drew Bonifant, and Mavericks beat writer Mike Curtis.

The conversation explored Flagg’s journey from his hometown in Maine to becoming a highly anticipated NBA prospect, highlighting the excitement surrounding his draft and the potential impact he will have on the Mavericks franchise and beyond. The journalists also shared insights into Flagg’s personality, work ethic and versatile playing style. They discussed the adjustments Flagg faces in the NBA and how fans from Maine are embracing his transition to the professional league while maintaining their loyalties.

Watch the full discussion below:

Here are five key takeaways from the discussion:

• There has been “a ton” of excitement in Maine for Cooper Flagg throughout his high school career, college season at Duke and leading up to the draft. This enthusiasm culminated in sold-out draft parties in his hometown of Newport. People in Maine have embraced him as “the face of Maine,” a role he welcomes to inspire young athletes.

• Flagg is described as humble and grounded, never having “gotten a big head” despite the immense attention. He also maintains a tight circle, valuing his friends from back home in Maine.

• Flagg’s game is marked by impressive athleticism and a unique ability to affect all areas of play, whether on defense, offense, or in transition. His “processing ability” is considered “far beyond any young player,” having consistently competed against higher-level athletes throughout his development. His versatility allows him to be a defensive stopper, facilitator, or scorer, adapting to whatever his team needs to win.

• Mavericks coach Jason Kidd plans to utilize Flagg at the point guard position to make him “uncomfortable,” leveraging his two-way versatility. Flagg’s defensive versatility is seen as his most immediate NBA-ready trait, allowing him to “switch” on any matchup, a crucial skill in playoff basketball.

• Flagg’s primary adjustments to the NBA are anticipated to be the increased physicality, ball pressure and extending his shooting range to the NBA 3-point line. While Maine traditionally holds strong allegiance to the Boston Celtics, many fans are expected to gradually become “Cooper fans” and then “Mavericks fans,” especially given that the teams are in separate conferences and only play each other twice a year.