Mavericks’ top draft pick showcases superstar potential before being rested for the remainder of the tournament.
Las Vegas, July 18 – Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, electrified the NBA Summer League with a 31-point, all-round dominant performance, immediately positioning himself as one of the most exciting young talents in years.
After a shaky debut game, Flagg responded emphatically, demonstrating elite scoring, defensive awareness, and playmaking that left scouts and fans in awe. His breakout game tied the Summer League rookie scoring record, cementing his name in early-season NBA conversations.
How Flagg Dominated
- Complete Offensive Arsenal
Flagg scored 31 points in just 31 minutes, combining smooth drives to the basket, mid-range jumpers, and high-efficiency finishing. He also hit 13 free throws, showcasing his ability to draw contact and control the game’s tempo. - Impact Beyond Scoring
Beyond the points, Flagg contributed 7 rebounds, 3 assists, and multiple defensive stops, proving he’s more than just a scorer. His anticipation on defense and quick decision-making drew comparisons to seasoned NBA veterans. - Rookie Maturity
Coaches highlighted his composure under pressure. Despite the hype surrounding his debut, Flagg played with calm confidence, showing he can handle the spotlight.
What the Mavericks Decided
Following the historic performance, the Dallas Mavericks’ coaching staff announced that Flagg will sit out the remaining Summer League games, citing the need to manage his workload and avoid unnecessary injury risks.
“We’ve seen everything we needed to see,” said a Mavericks assistant coach. “Cooper has proven he’s ready for the next level. Now it’s about preparing him for the real grind.”
Reactions from Scouts and Fans
- Scouts: Many NBA scouts described Flagg as “the most polished 18-year-old in decades,” with one even likening his court vision and defensive instincts to LeBron James in his rookie year.
- Fans: Social media exploded with highlight clips, calling Flagg the “future face of the Mavericks” and already debating his potential Rookie of the Year chances.
What’s Next for Flagg?
- He will join the Mavericks’ training camp later this year as they build around Luka Dončić and aim for a deep playoff run.
- With flagship endorsements and massive hype, Flagg is expected to be a key marketing and competitive asset for the franchise.
This breakout performance has shifted the Summer League spotlight entirely onto him, making Cooper Flagg the most talked-about rookie of 2025.
