Cooper Flagg’s Height Claim Sparks Debate: Media Day Photos vs. Official Measurements
Dallas Mavericks star Cooper Flagg claimed he has grown to 6'10" barefoot, a significant increase from his 6'7.75" draft combine measurement. While some outlets question the accuracy of this claim based on visual evidence from media day, others highlight the potential strategic advantages of his increased height and note that the team has not officially updated his listed height.
Key points
- Flagg stated at Mavericks media day that he is now 6'10" without shoes, up from 6'7.75" at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine.
- SB Nation cites photos and videos from media day showing Flagg appearing shorter than teammates like Morez Johnson (6'9") and Zaccharie Risacher (6'8.5"), suggesting the claim may be exaggerated.
- The Mavericks have not officially changed Flagg’s listed height, which remains at 6'9".
- Draymond Green advised Flagg to develop a post game to leverage his new height against smaller defenders.
- Duke Basketball Report compares Flagg’s potential profile to Toni Kukoč and Bobby Jones, noting his ability to run the floor and defend.
Background
Cooper Flagg was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, measured at 6'7.75" barefoot. He previously measured at 6'7" at the USA Basketball Hoop Summit in 2024. The Mavericks acquired Flagg in a trade involving Luka Dončić. The 2026-27 NBA season is beginning, with training camps opening in September 2026.
How outlets are covering it
SB Nation’s Ricky O’Donnell is skeptical of Flagg’s height claim, arguing that visual evidence from media day photos and videos contradicts the 6'10" assertion, as Flagg appears shorter than known 6'9" and 6'8.5" players. Sports Illustrated’s Austin Veazey accepts the claim as a potential growth spurt but questions whether Flagg should adopt a post-heavy style, noting that coach Dusty May prefers a pace-based system. Duke Basketball Report embraces the height increase as a major asset, comparing Flagg to historic players and suggesting he can now play 'bully ball.'
Why it matters
A confirmed 2.25-inch growth spurt for a generational prospect would significantly alter his role in the NBA, potentially making him a more dominant defensive and offensive presence. It also raises questions about the accuracy of player measurements and the strategic adjustments teams must make in response to such physical changes.
What to watch
The Mavericks will likely monitor Flagg’s performance and physical development throughout the 2026-27 season. Official height updates may occur if the team decides to adjust his listed measurements. Flagg’s ability to adapt to a post game or maintain his perimeter style will be key to his success.
- Cooper Flagg is lying about his height it seems, and his media day photos prove it SB Nation
- Mavs' Cooper Flagg Receives Advice After Growth Spurt From Warriors' Draymond Green Sports Illustrated
- Flagg’s height, Irving’s return, Lively’s health and more from Mavericks media day The New York Times
- Cooper Flagg Has Not Stopped Growing Duke Basketball Report
- Cooper Flagg growing on and off the court, ready to finally take the court with Kyrie Irving WFAA
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