In a promising start to the NBA preseason, Cooper Flagg showcased his talent during the Dallas Mavericks’ opener against the Oklahoma City Thunder. The rookie, who was the top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, impressed fans and analysts alike with his performance.
Flagg’s Impressive Debut
The 18-year-old from Duke made an immediate impact, demonstrating exceptional vision and defensive skills. Flagg concluded the first half as the leading scorer among starters, posting 10 points, six rebounds, and a block. Notably, he outperformed established players like Anthony Davis, D’Angelo Russell, and Klay Thompson.
Preseason Anticipation
Leading up to the game, Flagg expressed his excitement about the preseason, viewing it as a crucial step toward the upcoming regular season. He stated, “It’s obviously preseason, but it’s another step in the right direction.” This sentiment reflects his eagerness to translate his hard work from the offseason into game performance.
Performance During the Summer League
- In the 2025 NBA Summer League, Flagg averaged:
- 20.5 points per game
- 5.0 rebounds per game
- 2.5 assists per game
- 1.5 steals per game
- 1.0 blocks per game
Despite his commendable performance, Flagg’s participation in the Summer League was cut short after two games, indicating the Mavericks’ plans to preserve his potential for the regular season.
Looking Ahead
The Dallas Mavericks will kick off the regular season at home against the San Antonio Spurs on October 22, marking another opportunity for Flagg to shine. With a successful debut in the preseason, fans are eager to see how he continues to evolve as a player.
