Cooper Flagg Shines with Career-High 29 Points in Mavs Win

UPDATE: In a thrilling matchup, Cooper Flagg delivered a career-high 29 points, leading the Dallas Mavericks to a remarkable 118-115 comeback victory over the New Orleans Pelicans at the American Airlines Center on October 27, 2023. This dramatic win marks a significant turnaround for the struggling Mavericks, who rallied from a 15-point deficit to secure the win.

Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick, showcased his prowess with 12 of his points coming in the critical fourth quarter. His clutch performance was essential in overcoming a late-game challenge, especially as Derik Queen, Flagg’s former high school teammate, had a standout game for the Pelicans with 20 points, 11 assists, and 7 rebounds.

The game took a nail-biting turn as Queen missed a potential game-tying three-pointer in the final seconds, sealing the Mavericks’ victory. Flagg, reflecting on their postgame exchange, noted, “It’s full circle,” emphasizing their journey from high school rivals to NBA competitors.

With the Mavericks sitting at 5-12 this season, Flagg’s fearless performance in clutch situations has become a beacon of hope. He is currently tied for sixth in the league with 31 points in the final five minutes of games, demonstrating his ability to handle pressure.

“In clutch situations, he’s not afraid,”

said Mavericks coach Jason Kidd.

“He’s deliberate. For an 18-year-old, that’s pretty special.”

Flagg’s second-half surge, where he scored 21 points on an impressive 8-of-9 shooting, came after Kidd challenged him to attack the paint. Flagg responded decisively, noting, “I was settling for jump shots… you got to put more pressure on the defense.” His determination paid off, as he became the second-youngest player in NBA history to score 20 points in the paint, following LeBron James.

As the Mavericks look to build on this momentum, Flagg’s growth and ability to deliver in high-pressure moments will be critical. His performance not only highlights his individual talent but also the team’s potential to turn their season around. Keep an eye on Flagg as he continues to shine in his rookie season, making waves in the NBA and captivating fans worldwide.