According to his own assessment, the performance of the No. 1 overall selection, Cooper Flagg, in his summer league premiere on Thursday did not meet his expectations. However, in his subsequent appearance on Saturday, the prospective cornerstone of the Dallas Mavericks demonstrated precisely the attributes that have led to his reputation as a potentially transformative talent.
Flagg accumulated 31 points over 31 minutes during Saturday’s contest against Dylan Harper, the No. 2 overall selection, although the Mavericks were defeated by the San Antonio Spurs with a score of 76-69. His 31-point total represents the highest score achieved by a No. 1 pick in the Las Vegas Summer League since John Wall in 2010, and simple calculation reveals that Flagg accounted for nearly half of his team’s total points – a noteworthy accomplishment, even in an exhibition setting. He converted 10 of his 21 field goal attempts, in addition to securing four rebounds, one assist, and one block.
Flagg also successfully made the initial 3-point shots of his career, converting 3 of 9 attempts from beyond the arc. He displayed a pronounced aggressiveness, making a deliberate effort to penetrate towards the basket and initiate contact, resulting in an 8-for-13 performance from the free throw line after only having one attempt in his first game.
Individuals who harbored uncertainties regarding Flagg’s potential following an unsteady opening are undoubtedly reevaluating their opinions after observing Saturday’s showing.
| Debut vs. Lakers | 10 | 5-21 | 0-5 | 0-1 |
| Saturday vs. Spurs | 31 | 10-21 | 3-9 | 8-13 |
Harper also made a favorable impression during his limited playing time, amassing 16 points in slightly under 20 minutes, achieving 5-for-12 shooting efficiency in his summer league debut (he was absent from the Spurs’ initial game due to a groin ailment). He illustrated the skill and composure that positioned him as an appealing prospect as a 6-foot-6 guard, exhibiting command and effectively attacking the basket both in structured offensive plays and during fast breaks.
Harper also recorded six rebounds, two assists, two steals, and one block, while converting 6 of 7 free throw attempts.
“I believe I initiated positively, concentrating on involving my teammates, striving to execute plays correctly, and ultimately aiming to emerge victorious, which we achieved today,” Harper commented following his debut. “Therefore, I consider it to be a successful day.”
Flagg and Harper spearhead what is anticipated to be a significant draft class, which also includes VJ Edgecombe, Ace Bailey, and Kon Knueppel, among others. Carter Bryant, Harper’s teammate who was chosen No. 14 overall by the Spurs, performed exceptionally well on the defensive end during Saturday’s victory.
Identified as the leading two selections in the draft, this encounter marks only the initial instance in a series of contests between Flagg and Harper. Should subsequent meetings resemble this one, we can expect an engaging spectacle as these prospects continue to mature and refine their abilities.
“It’s certainly a remarkable competitive environment. In fact, the entire [draft] class consists of individuals with competitive spirit,” Harper remarked concerning his matchup with Flagg. “He demonstrated a strong performance, as did I. Overall, I believe we collectively showcased our capabilities to the broader basketball audience.”
