Cooper Flagg Shines in Mavericks Debut
FORT WORTH, Texas – The number one draft pick, Cooper Flagg, demonstrated his versatility and impact on the game during his NBA preseason debut. Flagg, known for his ability to influence the game in multiple ways, left his mark on the Dallas Mavericks’ victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder with a score of 106-89 at the Dickies Arena on Monday night. The 18-year-old recorded 10 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, and a block in 14 minutes of play.All of Flagg’s points came in a span of two minutes and 38 seconds in the second quarter. After grabbing a defensive rebound, Flagg raced up the court to score his first basket, a contested layup. He then hit a three-pointer and, subsequently, made two free throws and another three-pointer. He shot 3-of-6 overall and 2-of-3 from the three-point line. In addition, he committed no turnovers, demonstrating a clean game while taking on responsibilities as the Mavs’ point guard.“It’s a lot of fun playing this type of basketball when the ball is moving,” Flagg commented. “It was fun.”
Cooper Flagg
Flagg’s highlight moment came 85 seconds into the game, when he blocked an Isaiah Joe layup attempt, sparking a fast break that Anthony Davis finished with a dunk.“I just take what the defense gives me. I keep it simple, making the right play, whether it’s passing or shooting,” Flagg said.
Cooper Flagg
The Thunder, the defending champion, did not have their usual starters on this preseason trip.“You could see his defense, his playmaking, and then his scoring. It was really, really good,” said Mavs coach Jason Kidd.
Jason Kidd
