Cooper Flagg Shines in Summer League Debut

Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, debuted in the NBA Summer League for the Dallas Mavericks against Bronny James and the Los Angeles Lakers in Las Vegas before a sold-out crowd and record ticket prices. Flagg scored 10 points on 5-of-21 shooting, with 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 steals, a block, and only one turnover while largely playing point guard. The Mavericks narrowly defeated the Lakers after Flagg made a key defensive play and Bronny James missed a potential game-winning shot, with Ryan Nembhard leading Dallas in scoring. Flagg's debut included viral moments, such as a highlight dunk and competitive exchanges with James, fueling their emerging rivalry. Mavericks veterans, sports stars like Patrick Mahomes, and NBA legends including Grant Hill attended and praised Flagg’s performance. The game heightened excitement about Flagg’s future with Dallas and set high expectations for his rookie season.