Cooper Flagg described Thursday night as another step in a season defined by adjustment, opportunity, and learning after the Dallas Mavericks defeated the Golden State Warriors 123-115 at American Airlines Center.
Flagg finished with 21 points and a career-high 11 rebounds in 30 minutes, exceeding his planned workload in just his second game back from a sprained left ankle.
Facing Stephen Curry for the first time, Flagg admitted the moment carried weight given his background. “The Warriors are a team that I grew up watching a lot,” Flagg said. “This whole process for me is just a dream come true.”
Rebounding was a major emphasis entering the night, and Flagg credited coaching direction for his increased activity on the glass. “Coach Kidd has talked to me about it,” Flagg said. “He wants me to be more active on the glass, just being aware and helping out the bigs.”
Flagg noted that effort matters, but timing and positioning also play a role. “Sometimes the ball bounces your way,” he said. “You get some good bounces.”
One of those moments came on a second-chance putback late, which Flagg described with a hint of humor. “There was a great miss by Klay,” he said. “I wish everybody would miss like that.”
Flagg also praised the play of Max Christie, who scored 21 points and posted a team-high plus-minus during Dallas’ fourth straight win. “He’s shooting the ball really well at a high level,” Flagg said. “The more threes he gets up, it’s going to be good for us.”
Dallas improved to 19-26, a notable turnaround after a 4-12 start, and Flagg pointed to composure as a key difference. “Early in the season we had those close games,” he said. “Now we look more composed and know where we’re going.”
Flagg also addressed his growing comfort from the perimeter, especially with encouragement from teammates and staff. “It makes you want to shoot them when everybody’s telling you to let them fly,” he said. “I feel like it’s the wrong play when you turn down a shot.”
With his hand splint removed, Flagg acknowledged a subtle change in feel. “It’s a little different,” he said. “Getting back to having your natural hands.”
The rookie highlighted the consistency of Naji Marshall, who led Dallas with 30 points. “He shows up every single game,” Flagg said. “Such a vital part of our team.”
Flagg also praised Dwight Powell, who recorded a double-double as the Mavericks remained unbeaten when he starts. “He just does all the little things,” Flagg said. “It’s always a pleasure to share the floor with him.”
As Dallas prepares for its next test, Flagg emphasized confidence built through trust and repetition rather than results alone. “Everybody has our backs,” he said. “That confidence makes a big difference.”
