Cooper Flagg made NBA history on Monday night, scoring a career-high 42 points in an overtime loss to the Utah Jazz, breaking a decades-old record set by LeBron James for the most points scored by an 18-year-old in a single NBA game. Despite Flagg’s historic performance, the Dallas Mavericks fell 140-133 in Salt Lake City.

Flagg’s Historic Night

Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, posted 42 points, seven rebounds, and six assists while shooting 13-of-27 from the field and making 15 free throws. His performance broke James’ previous record of 37 points, which the former No. 1 overall pick set as an 18-year-old rookie against the Boston Celtics.

Flagg became the only 18-year-old in NBA history to score 40 points in a game, joining James as the only teenagers to consistently produce 24+ point games at that age. Flagg also tied Mark Aguirre for the most points scored by a rookie in Mavericks history, cementing his place among the franchise’s all-time greats.

Game Highlights

Flagg got off to a scorching start, scoring 14 points in the first quarter, shooting 5-of-7 from the field, helping Dallas take an early six-point lead. He added 12 points in the fourth quarter and strategically missed a free throw in the final seconds to help set up a rebound by Max Christie, forcing overtime.

Despite Flagg’s heroics, the Jazz opened overtime on an 11-4 run. Keyonte George led Utah with 37 points, while Lauri Markkanen added 33 points and 16 rebounds to secure the 140-133 victory.

Other notable Mavericks contributors included P.J. Washington with 25 points and 13 rebounds, Naji Marshall with 15 points, and Ryan Nembhard with 14 points and 11 assists. Dallas fell to 10-17 on the season with the loss.

Context and Legacy

Monday’s performance adds to Flagg’s reputation as one of the NBA’s most promising young stars. Already making headlines for high-scoring games this season, including 35 points against the Los Angeles Clippers last month, Flagg continues to live up to the hype surrounding his first overall draft selection.

With his 42-point outing, Flagg now trails only LeBron James and Kobe Bryant in total points scored in the NBA before turning 19, setting the stage for what could be a record-breaking early career.