Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg turned heads on December 23 with an electrifying first half against the Denver Nuggets, showcasing why he’s one of the NBA’s most exciting young players. The 19-year-old forward started the game with near-perfect efficiency, going 6-for-6 from the field early and making a significant impact on both ends of the floor, energizing the Mavericks offense and thrilling fans inside the arena and watching at home.
Flagg’s performance continued his trend of explosive scoring and playmaking that he has shown through much of the 2025-26 season. Entering the night, he was averaging about 18.7 points, 6.3 rebounds and 3.6 assists per game, adjusting quickly to the NBA after being taken as the No. 1 overall pick and bringing a versatile game from his Duke background.
How the Game Unfolded
In front of a raucous home crowd, Flagg’s hot start set the tone early. He shot with confidence and precision, demonstrating his ability to score from multiple levels while also involving his teammates. Despite his strong first half, the Mavericks were unable to maintain leads late in the game, and the contest ultimately became more competitive in the second half.
Although the final result went against Dallas, Flagg’s impact was evident. His quick scoring bursts, strong rebounding and playmaking pressure on Denver’s defense showed rare maturity for a rookie. He drew praise from commentators and fans alike for his fearless approach against NBA veterans and an elite Nuggets roster.
Rising Star in the NBA
Flagg’s epic start against Denver adds to a growing list of remarkable performances from the young star. Earlier in the month, he scored 42 points in an overtime game, becoming one of the youngest players in league history to reach such a total, cementing his place among elite rookie scorers.
While the Mavericks continue to search for consistent team success this season, Flagg’s individual brilliance remains a highlight. His ability to take over games and produce at a high level — especially in the opening minutes — suggests that the future is bright for this rising star in Dallas.