COOP, THERE IT IS: Cooper Flagg Erupts for 31 Points in Summer League Statement Game
The bounce-back was loud. The hype was real. And on Saturday in Las Vegas, Cooper Flagg delivered.
After a shaky Summer League debut just two nights earlier, the Dallas Mavericks’ No. 1 overall pick erased all doubt with a jaw-dropping performance against the San Antonio Spurs. Flagg poured in 31 points on 10-of-21 shooting, silencing critics and reigniting the buzz around one of the most anticipated rookies in recent NBA memory.
In just 31 minutes, the 6-foot-9 forward showcased every tool in his elite arsenal: shot creation, three-level scoring, relentless defense, and the kind of confidence that belongs under bright lights.
From Cold to Clutch
Thursday’s debut against the Lakers didn’t go as planned. Flagg struggled to find rhythm, shooting just 3-of-12 from the field and looking hesitant in moments. Social media questioned the hype. Pundits called for patience.
On Saturday, Flagg responded the only way he knows how with fire.
He came out aggressive, attacking the rim with force and knocking down tough jumpers. Whether it was pulling up off the dribble, finishing through contact, or stepping into threes, Flagg played with poise beyond his years. He drew multiple defenders, set up teammates when the double came, and proved exactly why Dallas made him the face of their franchise just weeks ago.
More Than Just Buckets
Flagg’s performance was more than just numbers it was a statement. He didn’t just score; he led. He hustled for loose balls, fought over screens, contested shots, and energized a Mavericks squad that now looks like it may have struck gold with its top pick.
“He’s got that it factor,” said one scout in the crowd. “You can’t teach that kind of confidence after a bad game. He took all the noise, processed it, and turned it into fuel.”
Building Something Bigger in Dallas
The Mavericks are entering a new era. With Luka Dončić now a Laker, Flagg represents the beginning of Dallas’ next chapter a potential franchise cornerstone who can impact both ends of the floor from Day 1.
And if Saturday’s performance is any indication, the Mavericks’ rebuild may not take long at all.
Fans filled the Thomas & Mack Center in anticipation of seeing Flagg bounce back. He did far more than that he electrified. “Coop! Coop!” chants rang through the arena by the fourth quarter. And after a vicious baseline dunk midway through the third, even opposing fans stood to applaud.
What’s Next
Summer League is about growth, and Flagg is already showing rapid progression. With two more games likely on the Mavericks’ Vegas schedule, all eyes will be on the rookie to see if he can maintain or even elevate this level of play.
But one thing’s for sure: the star is here.
So to all the doubters after Game 1?
COOP, THERE IT IS.
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