Dallas Mavericks rising star Cooper Flagg credited preparation and team focus after Thursday’s 116-114 overtime win over the Detroit Pistons.
“Yeah, it’s up there. They’re a physical team… if you’re not physical back, they’re going to punish you,” Flagg said, highlighting the intensity he faced during the full 40 minutes.
Flagg acknowledged the defensive adjustments Detroit made in the final minutes. “If they’re going to put two on me, you always got to make the right play… it’s just about being a basketball player, finding Klay and getting a good look off,” he explained.
The 18-year-old described his late-game scoring and shot-making. “Just getting to my spots… they’re showing a low man and they got some really athletic guys… I thought I did a little better down the very end of the fourth quarter, just getting to my spot and raising up,” Flagg said.
Flagg praised the team’s growth and health as a factor in their performance. “Honestly, I think that’s our first game having everybody that’s not out for the season healthy… if we can continue like this and have guys available, it’ll be really good for us,” he noted, emphasizing the Mavericks’ resilience.
The young guard also highlighted his partnership with Anthony Davis. “He’s just got a lot of gravity… it opens up the whole floor for the rest of us and gives us the ability to go and make plays,” Flagg said. He added on Davis’ defensive presence: “He’s special… his presence around the rim, blocking shots, and his hands are probably the best I’ve ever seen at his position.”
Flagg emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and consistent effort. “Day-to-day… just showing up and getting better… every opportunity and experience is only going to help us in the long run,” he said, reflecting on the team’s mentality after early-season struggles.
He also spoke about the Mavericks’ identity. “Next man up mentality… we have different guys stepping up every night… trusting each other is a big part of it,” Flagg said, acknowledging the role of loyalty and team culture.
Flagg spoke on adjusting to the NBA pace and mindset. “It’s different… not taking losses too hard, not enjoying wins too much… turning the page really quickly and getting ready to go to work the next day,” he explained.
The win improved Dallas to 11-17, with Flagg scoring 23 points and grabbing 10 rebounds. Anthony Davis contributed 15 points, including a crucial alley-oop in overtime. Cade Cunningham recorded a triple-double for Detroit, but the Pistons fell to 21-6.
The Mavericks will travel to face the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday, while Detroit hosts the Charlotte Hornets.
