Welcome to the NBA spotlight, Cooper Flagg. Nearly a full season after being drafted #1 by the Dallas Mavericks, Flagg is wrapping up his rookie year with a sense of awe, particularly when it comes to the towering presence of Nikola Jokic.
Unfortunately for Flagg, the Mavericks won't be seeing postseason action. However, these final regular-season games are a goldmine of experience for the young star as he looks forward to his sophomore year. In a recent matchup against the Denver Nuggets, Flagg got a firsthand lesson from Jokic on the art of basketball mastery.
After the Mavs' 142-135 loss, Flagg reflected on the experience of playing against the Serbian sensation. When asked if he envisions himself following Jokic's path, he humbly responded, "I think so," acknowledging the long journey ahead.
Flagg expressed admiration for Jokic's ability to read the game. "I can learn a lot from him," the 19-year-old noted. "The way he impacts the game is incredible."
Jokic, a three-time MVP and leader of the Nuggets' 2023 NBA championship team, continues to dazzle. Despite battling injuries, he's averaging 27.8 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 10.8 assists this season. His performance against the Mavericks-23 points, 21 rebounds, and 19 assists-left Flagg in awe.
"Sometimes it seems like he's not even trying," Flagg marveled. "He ends up with 20-20-20. It’s crazy to be part of it out there."
Flagg has faced off against several NBA legends this season, including Stephen Curry, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Giannis Antetokounmpo. Yet, the word "effortless" seems tailor-made for Jokic.
Flagg has had an impressive rookie season himself, averaging 20.4 points per game and often shouldering the Dallas offense. He's the frontrunner for Rookie of the Year and is already being touted as a future MVP contender.