Blue Devils Reunite in Big D?

“Blue Devils Reunite in Big D?” — Jon Scheyer Excited About Cooper Flagg Potentially Teaming Up with Dereck Lively in Dallas

Duke head coach Jon Scheyer can’t help but smile at the thought of two of his prized former Blue Devils potentially teaming up in the NBA and in a big-time market like Dallas, no less.

With the Dallas Mavericks holding the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and Cooper Flagg widely projected to be that selection, all signs point to an exciting reunion with Dereck Lively II, the Mavericks’ rising big man and former Duke standout. And no one seems more thrilled about that possibility than Scheyer himself.

“For me, the first thing I thought of is he gets to be with Dereck Lively,” Scheyer said, beaming with pride. “That’s family.”

Duke Brotherhood Headed to the Big Leagues

The idea of Flagg and Lively sharing the floor again has fans in Durham and Dallas buzzing. Both players represent the modern evolution of the game: long, athletic, versatile, and intelligent. But beyond the stats and scouting reports, Scheyer sees something deeper  chemistry, brotherhood, and the shared bond that only Duke players understand.

Lively, after a strong sophomore campaign in Dallas, has emerged as one of the most promising rim protectors in the NBA. Pairing him with a generational two-way talent like Cooper Flagg could give the Mavericks one of the most dynamic young duos in the league.

Scheyer’s Legacy Taking Shape in the NBA

This potential Mavs pairing is also a reflection of Jon Scheyer’s growing legacy at Duke. In just a few years as head coach, Scheyer has overseen the development of NBA-ready players who not only bring talent to the league  but also character and professionalism.

From Lively’s quiet toughness to Flagg’s all-business mentality, Scheyer’s Blue Devils are increasingly becoming the kind of players front offices dream about.

“They know what it means to be part of something bigger than themselves,” Scheyer recently said about his players entering the NBA. “They’re prepared for the moment.”

A New Era in Dallas?

With Luka Dončić now in Los Angeles, the Mavericks are entering a brand-new era  and building around Lively and a potential No. 1 pick like Flagg might be the blueprint for long-term success. And with their shared Duke background, the synergy could be instant.

Imagine Cooper Flagg’s perimeter defense and shot creation paired with Dereck Lively’s rim-running, shot-blocking, and vertical threat. The pick-and-roll possibilities? Endless. The defensive ceiling? Terrifying.

And if Scheyer’s excitement is any indicator, Dallas might not just be getting elite talent  they could be getting a foundation built on loyalty, culture, and brotherhood.

Final Thought

Jon Scheyer has coached a lot of stars. But seeing Cooper Flagg and Dereck Lively possibly reuniting in the pros?

That’s more than just good basketball.

That’s Duke history reloaded in Dallas.