Dallas pairs Cooper Flagg with explosive athleticism, betting on the Hokie forward’s defensive versatility and verticality to solidify a frontcourt rebuilding under Masai Ujiri’s new vision.
BROOKLYN - The foundation of the Masai Ujiri and Dusty May era in Dallas continues to take shape.
After selecting Michigan product Morez Johnson Jr. with the No. 9 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft and Spanish star Sergio De Larrea — who may be a draft and stash — the Mavericks continued adding to their young core by selecting Virginia Tech product Tobi Lawal with the No. 48 pick.
Standing at 6-foot-8, Lawal brings elite athleticism and frontcourt depth to a Dallas roster looking to build around franchise cornerstone Cooper Flagg. During his time as a Hokie, he showcased his ability to finish above the rim and rebound, making him an intriguing addition as the Mavericks look toward the future.
While Flagg’s Rookie of the Year campaign, compounded by the hirings of Ujiri and May, immediately changed the direction of the franchise, Dallas’ rebuild was never going to be completed with one player.
Surrounding a potential superstar requires finding high-value complementary pieces who can grow alongside him.
That’s where Wednesday night became important.
Lawal represents the type of developmental swing that has defined Ujiri-led front offices throughout his career. Think Pascal Siakam, OG Anunoby or Fred VanVleet.
After transferring from VCU to Virginia Tech, the athletic forward continued building his reputation as one of college basketball’s most explosive frontcourt players, using his strength and vertical ability to create opportunities on both ends of the floor.
While his offensive game remains a work in progress, Lawal’s athletic profile, defensive upside and ability to thrive without needing touches make him an intriguing fit next to Flagg as Dallas continues reshaping its roster.
For Ujiri, building through length, versatility and player development has been a consistent theme throughout his career. After adding Johnson and potentially De Larrea in the first round, the Mavericks now have another young player who fits into the long-term vision being established in Dallas.
And for May, the challenge becomes turning that collection of talent into a contender.
The Mavericks’ return to the postseason may ultimately depend on how quickly Flagg takes another leap, but surrounding him with cost-controlled contributors gives Dallas the flexibility needed to build something sustainable.
The next era of Mavericks basketball is still in its early stages, but Wednesday night marked another small step toward shaping its future.
