In a remarkable display of talent and consistency, Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg has etched his name into the NBA history books. On Tuesday night, the 19-year-old phenom achieved an unprecedented feat by becoming the first teenager ever to record three consecutive 30-point games in the league.
A Historic Performance Amid Team Defeat
Despite Flagg's explosive 36-point performance, the Dallas Mavericks suffered a 100-110 defeat against the visiting Boston Celtics at the American Airlines Center. The young star played an impressive 37 minutes, finishing with 36 points, 9 rebounds, 6 assists, and 2 blocks. He demonstrated exceptional efficiency, shooting 50.0% from the field by converting 12-of-24 attempts and making 2-of-4 from three-point range.
Rewriting the Rookie Record Books
Cooper Flagg continues to surpass expectations and break records previously held by basketball legends. His recent performances have eclipsed various rookie milestones set by iconic players like LeBron James and Luka Doncic. This achievement marks another significant chapter in what is rapidly becoming one of the most impressive rookie campaigns in recent NBA memory.
The Statistical Dominance of Flagg's Three-Game Stretch
Flagg's current scoring tear is statistically among the greatest rookie spans in NBA history. Over his last three outings, he has averaged a staggering 39.7 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 4.7 assists. This remarkable stretch began with a career-high 49 points against the Charlotte Hornets on January 29, followed by a 34-point double-double against the Houston Rockets, and culminated with the 36-point performance against Boston.
During this three-game window, Flagg showcased elite shooting efficiency across all areas of the court:
- 57.7% shooting from the floor
- 46.2% from beyond the arc
- 85.2% from the free-throw line
Stepping Up Amid Team Challenges
The Mavericks' front office had a clear vision when they won the draft lottery with just a 1.8% chance: select Duke's Cooper Flagg and build a championship-contending team around him. Since being drafted as the No. 1 overall pick, Flagg's role has expanded significantly as the team navigates injuries to key veteran players.
With Kyrie Irving still recovering from a long-term ACL injury and Anthony Davis sidelined with a hand injury since early January, Flagg has effectively transitioned into the focal point of the Dallas offense. His impact extends beyond scoring, as he leads the Mavericks in both total points (926) and steals per game (1.2), utilizing his 6-foot-9 height and 7-foot wingspan to dominate on both ends of the court.
Recognition from Coaching Staff
Following Tuesday's loss to Boston, Dallas head coach Jason Kidd praised his rookie sensation, stating, "Cooper was incredible," while highlighting both his impressive scoring ability and playmaking skills for his teammates. This endorsement from an experienced coach underscores Flagg's rapid development and importance to the team's future.
Despite the Mavericks' current five-game losing streak, Flagg's individual brilliance continues to reach unprecedented heights. His ability to perform at such an elite level as a teenager suggests a bright future for both the player and the franchise that placed their faith in his extraordinary talent.
