Everyone knew Cooper Flagg was coming.
He was the rising superstar from the unlikeliest of places, Maine. He went to Montverde Academy and was the unquestioned best player on a team full of future pros. He fit in at a Team USA camp before even enrolling in college. He did his thing at Duke.
And now, he's here.
The Dallas Mavericks chose Flagg at No. 1 overall, a pick that was never in doubt but an unlikely destination thanks to draft lottery luck.
Less than two months into Flagg's rookie season, he already has his breakout night.
On Monday, Flagg dropped 24 points in the first half and finished with 42 for the game. It's the most an 18-year old has ever scored in an NBA game, more than guys like LeBron James or Kobe Bryant or Tracy McGrady ever had.
Flagg added seven rebounds, six assists and two blocks for good measure.
Cooper Flagg vs Utah:
— StatMuse (@statmuse) December 16, 2025
42 PTS
7 REB
6 AST
2 BLK
The most PTS in a game by an 18-year-old. Pic.twitter.com/iwnCtAM3MY
It wasn't necessarily a marquee matchup. It was only against the Utah Jazz. It was at the same time as a Monday Night Football game.
But at this point, Flagg has already elevated himself. He makes headlines even when people aren't watching.
Soon enough, everyone will be watching. Flagg always seemed destined to reach great heights. He's already there.
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