Flag s salary cut sharply to become the top pick? He earned 28 million in college and earned about 13.8 million in the rookie season

On June 17, there are less than ten days left before the 2025 NBA Draft. If nothing unexpected happens, the Mavericks, who have the No. 1 pick, will choose Cooper Flag from Duke University's first pick in the first round. From the perspective of salary, Flag will usher in a significant "pay cut"! In his freshman season, Flag received approximately $28 million in revenue through a name, image and portrait rights (NIL) agreement. This includes a $13 million sponsorship contract with New Balance and a $15 million partnership agreement with Fanatics. In addition, he has established partnerships with brands such as Gatorade, Cort Furniture and The NIL Store. It is worth mentioning that these amounts may represent the total value of the contract, rather than the income from a single season. If Flag is the No. 1 pick in the 2025 draft as predicted, he will make about $60 million in four years. The NBA's rookie contract is small at the beginning and will increase every season, with his rookie salary expected to be close to $13.8 million. NIL contract ($28 million)>Rookie contract ($13.8 million). For this reason, US media ClutchPoints published an article saying that in order to realize his NBA dream, Flag must accept a significant "pay cut".

Of course, from a long-term perspective, Flag will make more money. Especially according to current rumors, the Mavericks will almost have no controversy in the first round with the first pick. Mavericks coach Kidd publicly praised Flag many times, believing that he will be a perfect candidate for the team. In his freshman season, Flag averaged 19.2 points and 7.2 rebounds per game, leading Duke to the final stage 4 of the NCAA Championship and was named College Player of the Year. Do you think Flag can fulfill his talent? Welcome to give your opinions in the comment section.