If you’ve been watching the Dallas Mavericks lately, you’ve definitely noticed the kid from Maine. He moves differently. He defends like his life depends on it. But there is a specific question that keeps popping up in group chats and search bars across the country: what number is Cooper Flagg wearing these days?
The answer isn't as simple as just a digit on a mesh tank top. It's a whole saga. Depending on when you first saw him—maybe it was a viral clip from Montverde or a Saturday night showdown at Cameron Indoor—you might remember him in a different jersey.
Right now, in the NBA, Cooper Flagg wears number 32.
But honestly, the journey to that number 32 is a winding road involving family history, NCAA retirement rules, and a tribute to a friend that most fans don't even know about.
Why Cooper Flagg Wears Number 32 for the Dallas Mavericks
When the Mavericks snagged Flagg with the first overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, there was immediate speculation about his kit. Would he stick with the number 2 he wore at Duke? Or would he go back to the 32 he made famous in high school?
He went with 32.
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This wasn't some random marketing decision or a "new era" branding play. It was a homecoming. Flagg has worn 32 for basically his entire life. He wore it at Nokomis Regional High School in Maine. He wore it at Montverde Academy while becoming the top recruit in the world.
The reason? His mom, Kelly.
Kelly Flagg was a beast on the court back in her day. She wore number 32 during her high school career, and her inspiration was none other than Christian Laettner. Yeah, that Christian Laettner. The one who hit "The Shot" for Duke. It’s a funny bit of irony—the number was a tribute to a Duke legend, but it’s the one number Cooper couldn't wear when he actually got to Duke.
The Duke Dilemma: Why Was He Number 2 in College?
You probably saw the photos of him in a Blue Devils jersey. In those, he’s clearly wearing number 2.
If he loved 32 so much, why the change?
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Simple: Duke is Duke. They retire numbers like it’s going out of style. Because Christian Laettner was so dominant in Durham, the school retired the number 32 years ago. It hangs in the rafters of Cameron Indoor Stadium. Even for a generational talent like Cooper Flagg, they weren't going to pull it down.
So, he had to pivot. He chose number 2, and the reason is actually pretty heavy. He chose it to honor Donovan Kurt, a close family friend and former teammate of his older brother. Donovan tragically passed away from cancer, and wearing number 2 was Cooper’s way of keeping his memory on the floor during his one-and-done season.
It’s those little details that tell you a lot about the guy. He’s not just a walking highlight reel; he’s a kid who stays grounded in where he came from.
A History of the Jersey: What Number is Cooper Flagg by Team?
If you're a jersey collector or just a die-hard fan, here is the quick breakdown of what he's worn throughout his career so far:
- Nokomis Regional (Maine): Number 32. This is where he won a state title as a freshman alongside his twin brother, Ace.
- Montverde Academy: Number 32. He dominated the national circuit here, winning Gatorade National Player of the Year.
- USA Basketball (U17): Number 15. International numbers are often more restricted, but he still made it look good while winning gold in Spain.
- Duke University: Number 2. The temporary switch because of the Laettner retirement.
- Dallas Mavericks: Number 32. The return to the family legacy.
Does the Number 32 Matter for His Performance?
Athletes are superstitious. We know this. But for Flagg, the return to 32 seems to have brought back that "Maine United" energy.
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In Dallas, he’s fitting into a roster with Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving. Usually, a rookie—even a number one pick—might feel the pressure of such a storied number. Think about the greats who wore 32. Magic Johnson. Karl Malone. Shaq (in Orlando).
Flagg doesn't seem to care about the ghosts of 32s past. He’s out there averaging nearly a double-double and looking like the Defensive Player of the Year candidate everyone predicted.
One thing that’s really cool? The Mavs fans have embraced it. On draft night, the team reportedly had 3,000 jerseys ready to go, and they sold out almost instantly. People weren't just buying a name; they were buying the return of the 32.
What's Next for the Flagg Jersey?
Now that he’s settled into the league, expect that 32 to stay put. Unless Dallas decides to do something wild, this is likely the number he’ll be wearing when he eventually makes his first All-Star appearance—which, let's be real, is probably happening sooner rather than later.
If you’re looking to buy a jersey, make sure you’re looking for the Mavericks Association or Icon editions with the 32 on the back. Just don't be surprised if you see a few "Flagg 2" Duke jerseys still floating around at games; those are basically collector's items now.
The kid from Newport, Maine, has come a long way from playing in cold gyms. But whether he’s in a Duke #2 or a Dallas #32, the game stays the same. He’s going to block your shot, he’s going to run the floor, and he’s going to make it look easy.
Next Steps for Fans:
If you want to track his stats or grab official gear, check the Mavs Shop for the latest "Association Edition" drop. Also, keep an eye on his signature shoe rumors—there's a good chance the "32" motif shows up in the design whenever his first pro model hits the shelves.