Shaq Praises Mavericks Rookie Cooper Flagg

Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg impressed in his NBA Summer League debut, bouncing back from a difficult first game by scoring 31 points in his second outing before the team rested him to preserve their top pick. Flagg’s competitive drive and eagerness to play another game to prove himself have resonated with fans, teammates, and NBA executives, with one rival GM expressing envy at Dallas’s fortune in drafting him. NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal praised Flagg's exceptional talent and maturity for his age, advising patience and cautioning against placing excessive pressure on the 18-year-old. Flagg now joins Mavericks veterans Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving, positioning him for an immediate impact. The excitement for Flagg’s regular-season debut is high, with expectations that he could be a key contributor to Dallas’s championship hopes. The Mavericks are considered well-suited to nurture Flagg’s potential as he begins his NBA career.