Mavericks Set to Pay Cooper Flagg Less Per Year Than What He Made in NIL at Duke originally appeared on Athlon Sports. For just about every player making the jump from college basketball to the NBA, they'll be receiving a larger chunk of change than what they earned at the college level.

If those numbers are true, then Flagg will have made more money last year than he will on his rookie salary in the NBA. Flagg won't reach the $28 million mark in salary until his second season, assuming he signs for the maximum allowed.

Cooper Flagg’s rookie contract with the Mavericks is more than a paycheck—it’s a statement of trust and high expectations, setting the stage for a career full of potential and big moments ahead.