
UPDATE: Rookie sensation Cooper Flagg faced a challenging start to his NBA career, scoring just 10 points as the Dallas Mavericks fell to the San Antonio Spurs in a decisive 125-92 loss on October 25, 2023. The game took place at the packed American Airlines Center, where the anticipation turned into disappointment for fans and players alike.
Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, struggled in his debut, going 4-of-13 from the field and failing to register an assist in his starting role as point guard. “Not great,” Flagg assessed his performance candidly. “Obviously, didn’t play incredibly well, but we’ve got to move past it.”
The game began with promise for Flagg as he showcased his athleticism, attempting a lob catch from Anthony Davis, but the highlight attempt ended in a missed dunk, setting the tone for a frustrating night. Flagg’s scoring drought lasted until the second half, where he finally made a mid-range jumper on his first possession back on the floor.
Meanwhile, the Spurs were led by standout rookie Victor Wembanyama, who dominated with 40 points, 15 rebounds, and 3 blocks, leaving Flagg’s performance overshadowed. Spurs guard Stephon Castle, who guarded Flagg closely, noted, “He didn’t shoot the ball well, but he seemed a lot more poised than I thought he would be.”
Flagg’s struggles were compounded by the Mavericks’ overall performance, as the team only scored eight points on the 19 possessions he led the ball up the floor. Even with a commendable effort, including 10 rebounds in 32 minutes of play, the Mavs were unable to find their rhythm.
“Game one. I mean, he’s still a rookie,” Davis said, trying to ease the pressure on Flagg. “It’s first-game jitters when it’s time for the real thing.” Coach Jason Kidd echoed this sentiment, stating, “I thought he played well. The stat line is not going to say that, but he’s going to learn from this game.”
Looking ahead, Flagg emphasized the need for improvement as the Mavericks prepare for their next matchup against the Washington Wizards on Friday. “I’m excited to keep going. Obviously, it hurts,” he said, reflecting on the loss.
As the Mavericks regroup, Flagg’s debut serves as a valuable learning experience, with fans and analysts alike eager to see how the rookie will bounce back in his upcoming games. The urgency for improvement is palpable as the Mavericks aim to harness Flagg’s potential for future success.