Cooper Flagg, the 18-year-old forward and number one pick in this year’s NBA Draft, made history as the youngest player ever to score 40 points in an NBA game. The Dallas Mavericks fell 140-133 in overtime to the Utah Jazz, but Flagg’s remarkable performance has set a new benchmark for teenage talent in the league.

Record-Breaking Performance by Cooper Flagg

Playing at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Flagg finished the game with 42 points, seven rebounds, and six assists, joining a very elite list of teenage scorers in NBA history. Only Cliff Robinson (45), GG Jackson (44), and LeBron James (43) have scored more points as teenagers, and Flagg equaled Mark Aguirre’s record for a Mavericks rookie.

Additionally, Flagg became the third teenager in NBA history, alongside LeBron James and Kevin Durant, to achieve at least 40 points, five rebounds, and five assists in a single game. This historic feat comes just days before Flagg turns 19, highlighting his meteoric rise in professional basketball.

Game Highlights: Mavericks vs. Jazz

The Mavericks initially led 75-71 at halftime, with Flagg already scoring 24 points. Later in the fourth quarter, Dallas held a 124-116 advantage. However, the Jazz fought back, overcoming the eight-point deficit to take a 129-127 lead. Max Christie’s two clutch free throws tied the game with less than five seconds remaining, sending it into overtime.

The Jazz ultimately dominated in extra time, with Keyonte George scoring 37 points and Lauri Markkanen adding 33, securing their 10th win of the season. Dallas now sits 12th in the Western Conference, while Utah holds 10th place.

Who is Cooper Flagg?

Cooper Flagg, standing 6ft 8in, first made waves in high school as the first freshman to be named Maine Player of the Year while leading Nokomis Regional to a state title in 2021. He later transferred to Montverde Academy in Florida, earning USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year in 2022 and National High School Player of the Year in 2024.

Flagg also represented the USA at the 2022 Under-17 World Cup, helping his team secure gold and earning a spot on the all-tournament team.

At Duke University during the 2024-25 season, Flagg averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists across 37 games, leading the Blue Devils to the Final Four and earning National College Player of the Year honors.

Cooper Flagg’s NBA Debut and Current Stats

Flagg made his NBA debut for the Dallas Mavericks against the San Antonio Spurs in October. After 25 games, he is averaging 17.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game, demonstrating his immediate impact in the league and earning comparisons to some of the greatest young talents in basketball history.

What This Means for the Mavericks

Despite the overtime loss, Flagg’s historic performance offers a glimpse into the Mavericks’ bright future. His scoring ability, court vision, and versatility make him a cornerstone for Dallas as they aim to climb the Western Conference standings. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as this teenage phenom continues to rewrite NBA records.