Derek Lively II hilariously discusses the atmosphere of Cooper Flag

In front Dallas Mavericks newcomer Cooper Flaggdebut, Derek Lively II gave us a glimpse of what the NBA’s best look like off the court. Flagg is an important part of the Mavericks’ bold predictions some are for Dallas, heading into the regular season.

Lively II spoke about how comfortable Flagg is already around the veteran and the rest of the Mavericks team, according to Brad Townsend of the Dallas Morning News.

“He’s having fun no matter where — on the court or off — he’s still the youngest in the gym. He’s always trying to make a joke. He’s always trying to make fun of the old guys, which is hilarious. But I make sure he doesn’t try to bring it to me because I’m not that old,” Lively II said. “But he’s been great. He seems like he’s enjoying Dallas. His family is great. And we’re just trying to make him feel as welcome as possible.”

From the classic handshake fake to calling teammates “Unk,” Flagg keeps the team feeling relatively young for an aging Mavericks squad.

“I let him call me ‘Unk’ once or twice because I’m a dad, but we don’t allow that anymore,” added Derek Lively II. “Bringing that kind of immaturity makes everything loose, because we have so many old players on the team now, we have to make sure it stays young.”

Dereck Lively II on the vibe brought by fellow Dukie Cooper Flagg. Lively says she draws the line, however, at Flagg’s habit of calling him “Unc.”

“I’m only 3 years older than him.” pic.twitter.com/iukopICZ8v

— Brad Townsend (@townbrad) October 17, 2025

Flagg turned in perhaps his most impressive performance of the preseason, finishing with 13 points on 5-of-11 shooting and three assists in a 121-94 win over the Los Angeles Lakers in the Mavericks’ preseason finale.

Steve Kerr’s strong take on the Mavericks’ Cooper Flagg

Head coach of the Warriors Steve Kerr delivered a powerful blow to Cooper Flegg on the Mavericks rookie first impression in Las Vegas. Kerr described feeling like Flag presence on another level compared to other rookies, according to ESPN’s Tim McMahon.

“I just remember the force you felt,” Kerr told ESPN. “You felt him right away. It was like a basketball player; it wasn’t just like he dunked. It was a pass, a cut, a left-handed jump hook when the offense had nothing else; it was so consistent.”

The Mavericks will host the Spurs in Wednesday’s opener.