Cooper Flagg Showcases Versatile Skill Set in Impressive Preseason Debut

photo cred: (AP Photo/LM Otero)

FORT WORTH, Texas — Top overall pick Cooper Flagg wasted no time showing why he’s considered one of basketball’s most complete young prospects. The 18-year-old rookie flashed his versatility and poise in his first NBA preseason appearance, helping the Dallas Mavericks cruise past the Oklahoma City Thunder 106–89 on Monday night at Dickies Arena.

Playing just one half, Flagg made the most of his 14 minutes, posting 10 points, six rebounds, three assists, and a blocked shot. His well-rounded effort reflected the unselfish and energetic style of basketball he takes pride in.

“That’s a fun brand of basketball to play when the ball’s moving around,” Flagg said after the game. “It was fun.”

Flagg’s scoring burst came in a short but electric stretch during the second quarter. It began with a coast-to-coast layup after grabbing a defensive rebound — his first NBA points. On the next possession, he knocked down a three-pointer as the pick-and-roll ball handler, followed by two made free throws after drawing contact on a spin move inside. Moments later, he hit another three off the dribble, giving fans an early glimpse of his offensive range and confidence.

He finished 3-of-6 from the field and 2-of-3 from deep, running the offense smoothly and avoiding any turnovers.

“Just taking whatever the defense gives me,” Flagg said. “Keeping it simple and making the right play — whether that’s a pass or a shot.”

Flagg’s defensive instincts were on display early, too. Just over a minute into the game, he rotated from the weak side to block Isaiah Joe’s layup attempt — a play that sparked a fast break finished by Anthony Davis with a dunk on the other end.

“You saw the defense, the playmaking, and the scoring,” said Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd. “He was really, really good.”

The Thunder rested all of their regular starters after playing in Charleston, South Carolina, the night before, but that didn’t take away from Flagg’s standout debut. His performance offered an encouraging glimpse of what Dallas fans can expect — a confident young player capable of impacting the game in every way.