Mavericks Select Duke Star Lively II with No. 12 Pick
Block-Happy Center to Bolster Mavs' Defensive Prowess
Mavs Acquire Lively II in Draft-Day Trade with Thunder
In a blockbuster move that bolsters their defensive arsenal, the Dallas Mavericks have selected Duke center Dereck Lively II with the No. 12 pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. The towering 7-footer, known for his exceptional shot-blocking abilities, joins the Mavs after a standout season with the Blue Devils.
Lively II was a key contributor to the top-ranked 2022 recruiting class at Duke. He played a pivotal role in the Blue Devils' run to the NCAA Tournament Elite Eight, averaging 8.2 points, 5.9 rebounds, and an impressive 3.2 blocks per game.
The Mavs acquired Lively II in a draft-day trade with the Oklahoma City Thunder. Dallas sent the rights to their own No. 26 pick to the Thunder in exchange for the highly coveted center. This move signals the Mavericks' commitment to building a formidable defense around their star Luka Dončić.
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