Flagg Shined: Versatility in Mavericks’ Preseason Debut

Cooper Flagg Shines in His Preseason Debut with the Mavericks

FORT WORTH, Texas – Number one draft pick Cooper Flagg showcased his versatility and game impact during his NBA preseason debut. Flagg, known for his ability to influence the game in various ways, had an outstanding performance in 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 rookie accumulated 10 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists and a block in 14 minutes of play.

“That’s a fun style of basketball to play when the ball is moving,” Flagg said. “It was fun.”

Cooper Flagg

All of Flagg’s points came within a span of two minutes and 38 seconds in the second quarter. After grabbing a defensive rebound, Flagg advanced up the court to score a layup on a contested attempt, marking his first points. On the next possession, he hit a three-pointer. He also scored two free throws after being fouled and made another three-pointer.

Flagg went 3-for-6 from the field and 2-for-3 from the three-point line. In addition, he committed no turnovers, handling the ball smoothly and taking on responsibilities as the team’s point guard.

“Just taking what the defense gives me,” Flagg said. “Keeping it simple, making the right play, whether it’s passing or shooting.”

Cooper Flagg

Flagg’s highlight moment came 85 seconds into the game, when he blocked a layup attempt by Isaiah Joe, which sparked a fast break that Anthony Davis finished with a dunk.

“We were able to see his defense, his playmaking, and then his scoring,” said Mavs coach Jason Kidd. “He was really, really good.”

Jason Kidd

The reigning champion Thunder did not have their usual starters on this preseason trip, which included a victory over the Charlotte Hornets in Charleston, South Carolina, on Sunday night.