No. 1 Pick Cooper Flagg Makes Highly Anticipated NBA 2K Summer League Debut Tonight vs. Lakers…see more……
LAS VEGAS – The wait is over. Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, made his long-anticipated NBA 2K Summer League debut for the Dallas Mavericks last night against the Los Angeles Lakers in a sold-out Thomas & Mack Center crowd that buzzed with anticipation.
Touted as one of the most hyped high school and college prospects in recent memory, the 6’8″ forward from Duke University has had the basketball world watching his every move. Last night, fans finally got their first glimpse of Flagg in an NBA setting—squaring off against another highly publicized rookie, Bronny James, son of NBA legend LeBron James. The stage couldn’t have been bigger, and while the game had the electricity of a playoff match, it was ultimately a learning experience for Flagg.
Despite early nerves and shooting struggles, Cooper Flagg showcased the versatility and potential that made him the top pick. He finished with 10 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals, and 1 block in 32 minutes of action. Though he shot just 5-of-21 from the field and missed all five of his three-point attempts, it was clear Flagg made a strong impression with his court awareness, defensive instincts, and hustle plays.
“I’m not thrilled with how I shot the ball tonight,” Flagg said postgame. “But I felt the energy. I just wanted to contribute in other ways—defensively, making the right pass, being in the right position.
His highlight of the night came midway through the third quarter, when he picked off a cross-court pass, sprinted in transition, and delivered a thunderous one-handed dunk that brought the crowd to its feet. Moments like those were a reminder that despite the shooting struggles, Flagg possesses the athleticism and basketball IQ of a future star.
Mavericks assistant coach Josh Broghamer, who’s leading the Summer League squad in place of head coach Jason Kidd, praised Flagg’s composure: “He didn’t force it. Yes, the shots didn’t fall, but he stayed within the flow of the game. His defense, passing, and leadership were right where we need them.
Dallas went on to win the game 87–85 in a thrilling finish, thanks to a clutch corner three from Ryan Nembhard off a Flagg assist with under a minute to play.
The matchup was particularly hyped because of Bronny James, who had a solid outing for the Lakers, scoring 12 points and grabbing 3 rebounds. The two rookies even matched up on several defensive possessions, adding a competitive edge that fans loved.
Social media quickly lit up during and after the game. #FlaggDebut and #BronnyVsFlagg trended on X (formerly Twitter) throughout the night. Fans, analysts, and former players all weighed in. Hall of Famer Kevin Garnett tweeted, “Flagg’s shot will come. But his presence on defense and poise already scream vet.
The game also drew notable attention from NBA stars in attendance. Luka Dončić, Kyrie Irving, and Anthony Davis—Flagg’s future Mavericks teammates—sat courtside, showing support for their franchise’s future cornerstone.
Flagg’s debut may not have been perfect statistically, but it was everything fans hoped for in terms of effort, potential, and excitement. His ability to impact the game even when his shot isn’t falling is what separates him from many other young players.
This is just the beginning,” Flagg said. “One game down, and I’m only going to get better.
The Mavericks’ next Summer League game is scheduled against the San Antonio Spurs, where Flagg will have a chance to bounce back and further build on this foundation. One thing is certain: the Cooper Flagg era in Dallas has officially begun, and the basketball world
will be watching closely.