Matt MacKenzie: You only had to tell Cooper Flagg once

Jun 22, 2025 8:45 PM

With the NBA Draft fast approaching, the Dallas Mavericks hold the coveted No. 1 overall pick, and all signs point to them selecting Duke’s standout forward Cooper Flagg.

The 6’8″ forward is widely regarded as a generational talent with elite two-way potential, and his remarkable basketball IQ and work ethic are only fueling the hype.

Flagg’s longtime trainer, Matt MacKenzie, who has worked closely with him throughout his development, recently spoke with The Dallas Morning News about what sets the rising star apart from others his age.

According to MacKenzie, the player not only listens, but he also internalizes and adapts instantly.

“You only had to tell him something once and he was immediately starting to apply it into drill work,” MacKenzie said. “And then I would watch his games and he would immediately start to try to apply it into his game. So there was just an incredibly steep learning curve. He was able to pick up on things quickly. It was very natural to him.”

MacKenzie’s praise underscores just how coachable and instinctive Flagg is – traits that, combined with his physical tools and competitiveness, make him a potentially franchise-altering player for Dallas.

As the Mavericks look to build around their championship-caliber core, Flagg could be the perfect high-upside addition to shape the next era of Mavericks basketball.