"I just try to take what the defense gives me": Cooper Flagg dazzles against OKC
Dallas Mavericks played against the champions Oklahoma City Thunder with the number 1 pick, captivating them
The number one draft pick, Cooper Flagg, demonstrated in his preseason debut that his ability to influence victory goes far beyond scoring. In his first game with the Dallas Mavericks, the 18-year-old made it clear why he is considered a generational talent, showing an unusual versatility for a player his age.
Flagg shined in the Mavericks' 106-89 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder at the Dickies Arena, delivering an outstanding first half. In just 14 minutes on the court, he contributed with 10 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, and a block, without turning the ball over. “Basketball is fun when the ball moves like that. It was fun,” he commented after the game.
All his points came in a burst of just two and a half minutes during the second quarter. He started with an individual play after grabbing a defensive rebound and traversing the entire court to score his first basket with a layup between defenders. In the next possession, he nailed a three-pointer as the ball handler in the pick and roll, then made two free throws after a foul in the post and closed his streak with another dribble-three. He finished shooting 3 for 6 from the field and 2 for 3 from long range.
“I just try to take what the defense gives me,” explained Flagg. “Keep it simple, make the right decision, whether it's passing or shooting, whatever is appropriate.”
Interesting Match against OKC
The most notable moment of his debut came just 85 seconds after the tip-off when he came from the weak side to block Isaiah Joe's layup attempt. The play triggered a fast break that Anthony Davis capped off with a dunk.
“We saw his defense, his playmaking ability, and also his scoring,” praised coach Jason Kidd. “He was really, really good.”
Oklahoma City, the defending champion, did not field any of its usual starters in this second consecutive preseason matchup after defeating the Charlotte Hornets the night before in Charleston, South Carolina.
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