Cooper Flagg gets real in first NBA matchup against LeBron James
With The Dallas Mavericks lost to Luka Doncic and the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday night, 129-119, there was a lot of talk about the contest. Like for example Mavics star Anthony Davis returns from injury to Lakersit was also a first for a rookie Cooper Flaggfacing LeBron James.
As Flagg recorded a double-double scoring 13 points with 11 assists with seven rebounds and three steals, he would be asked after the game if he would play against James for the first time. He wouldn’t hold back his excitement, explaining how impressive is that to watch James play at 40 years old.
“It’s amazing, obviously, to see what else he’s able to do,” Flagg said, according to Mark Medina. “As old as he is, it’s just amazing, and I think the best thing for him, right now, is how smart he is. He’s always the smartest, if not one of the smartest players on the field.”
“He played with such a high IQ, it made the game easy for himself,” Flagg continued. “Tonight, especially, he didn’t do anything crazy; he didn’t have to. He just kept it simple and made the smartest plays every possession, and that just makes it easier for him out there.”
Mavs rookie Cooper Flagg plays against LeBron James pic.twitter.com/Csc9fo3Kk1
— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) November 29, 2025
Mavericks’ Cooper Flagg on how much he’s grown up
As Lakers guard Austin Reaves caused problems for the Mavericks in Friday night’s loss, it was another game that showcased Flagg’s development as an elite prospect. No doubt Dallas wants to build around him, there’s been growth with the 18-year-old, even though he’s only 18. how he explains his comfort level.
“I’m just comfortable. I’m taking what the defense gives me, playing at a good pace. I’m just slowing down,” Flagg said, per Nicole Ganglani. “Just be confident. Obviously you’re going to make mistakes. Everyone makes mistakes. Just play along, be confident in your decision-making and trust your instincts.”
Either way, the Mavericks are 5-15, and Flagg and the team are looking to get back into the win column Saturday against the Los Angeles Clippers.
2025-11-29 17:39:00
