With only a 1.8% chance to win the 2025 NBA Draft Lottery, the Dallas Mavericks had their prayers answered as they landed the number one pick on Monday, May 12.  It was the first No. 1 overall pick in the history of the franchise. 

After a controversial trade that sent Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis, Mavericks GM Nico Harrison now has a golden opportunity to win back his distraught fan base by drafting Duke standout Cooper Flagg.

Originally in the 11th slot in the NBA Draft lottery order, the Mavericks somehow moved up 10 spots, which, according to CBS Sports Research, “is the biggest jump by any team in lottery history.” The 1.8% is the 4th-longest odds by a winner since the lottery began in 1985. Mavericks legend Rolando Blackman was present to represent the team.

Rick Welts, CEO of the Mavericks, expressed his excitement at the improbable result.

"I am so happy for Mavericks fans," Welts said, per ESPN. "I only got to Dallas January 1st this year. February 1st, we broke the internet [with the Doncic trade]. I am just amazed at the depth of emotion and connection that the fan base has with this team. And what happened today, I can't imagine a better day for Mavs fans. It's going to really be something special. I can't wait to get back to Dallas."

Other surprises include the San Antonio Spurs getting the second pick and the Philadelphia Sixers nabbing the third pick.

Amazingly, the Utah Jazz, Washington Wizards, and Charlotte Hornets, who “tanked” with the worst records in the league this season could not claim one of the top-three picks. 

The NBA Draft 2025 presented by State Farm, which will be held Wednesday, June 25 (First Round) and Thursday, June 26 (Second Round) at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

Below is the entire lottery draft order:

1. Dallas Mavericks

2. San Antonio Spurs

3. Philadelphia Sixers

4. Charlotte Hornets

5. Utah Jazz

6. Washington Wizards

7. New Orleans Pelicans

8. Brooklyn Nets

9. Toronto Raptors

10. Houston Rockets

11. Portland Trail Blazers

12. Chicago Bulls

13. Atlanta Hawks

14. San Antonio Spurs