Wembanyama Scores 40 in Spurs Rout

Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick, made his NBA debut as the Mavericks' starting point guard in a sellout at the American Airlines Center, becoming one of the youngest players to start in his first game. He finished with a 10-point, 10-rebound double-double but struggled offensively — scoreless in the first half, 4-of-13 shooting, three turnovers and no assists — and called the performance "not great." Dallas was routed 125-92 by the San Antonio Spurs, who were led by Victor Wembanyama's 40 points, 15 rebounds and three blocks. Coach Jason Kidd's experiment listing Flagg at point guard drew scrutiny after Flagg appeared tentative initiating the offense, though analysts and teammates noted flashes of poise and upside. Anthony Davis played but could not solve the matchup problems Wembanyama created, tempering expectations for the Mavericks' immediate prospects.