Cooper Flagg doesn’t need reminding of where the Dallas Mavericks sit in the Western Conference race as they enter Wednesday’s matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves with a 19-27 record. Still, his invitation to the Rising Stars challenge served as confirmation that his individual impact is being noticed across the league.

Flagg spoke after Tuesday’s practice at American Airlines Center, where the team relocated because ice and snow made access to the Mavericks’ practice facility impractical. The conversation centered less on destination and more on process, a theme that has followed the rookie throughout his first NBA season.

“It means a lot,” Flagg said. “I feel blessed. It’s kind of the outcome of all the work I’ve put in. Obviously, the way the season has gone, we wish some things would’ve gone differently, but everything happens for a reason. I feel really blessed and honored.”

Flagg is one of 10 rookies chosen for this year’s Rising Stars event, which also features 11 sophomores and seven NBA G League players. The annual showcase will be held during NBA All-Star Weekend next month in Los Angeles.

Cooper Flagg Continues Mavericks’ Rising Stars Presence

With his selection, Flagg becomes the 13th player in franchise history to earn a Rising Stars invitation dating back to the event’s debut in 1994, when it was known as the Rookie-Sophomore Challenge. Dallas has now been represented in the event for three consecutive seasons, following appearances by Dereck Lively II in each of the past two years.

Flagg’s spot was secured on the strength of a productive first half. Through 43 games, all starts, he is averaging 18.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 4.1 assists in 33.8 minutes per game while shooting 47.3% from the field and 79.5% from the free-throw line. He has totaled 807 points, 275 rebounds, and 178 assists, adding 55 steals and 32 blocks as his role has expanded on both ends of the floor.

The Rising Stars Draft is scheduled for Tuesday at 5 p.m. CT on Peacock. Three teams of NBA players will be selected by honorary coaches Carmelo Anthony, Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady, with players drafted regardless of position, conference or experience. A fourth team will be composed entirely of G League players.

Cooper Flagg Embraces Chance to Share Stage With Familiar Faces

Flagg could find himself reunited during the event with former teammates Kon Knueppel and Derik Queen, both of whom were also selected.

“That would be really cool,” Flagg said. “Those are guys I’ve played with before. Having that experience again, getting drafted together and sharing the floor, that would be special.”

Knueppel, Flagg’s former roommate during their lone season together at Duke, has emerged as one of the league’s most consistent rookies with the Charlotte Hornets. He has captured the last two Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month awards, matching Flagg’s recent run in the West.

“He’s been incredible,” Flagg said. “From being roommates last year to seeing what he’s doing now, it’s been impressive. I know what he’s capable of. I’m really happy for him.”

Jason Kidd Highlights Cooper Flagg’s First-Half Growth

Flagg and Knueppel are scheduled to face one another Thursday at American Airlines Center when Charlotte visits Dallas, a matchup that has already drawn attention amid Rookie of the Year conversations.

Flagg’s availability remains under evaluation. He was initially listed as doubtful for Sunday’s postponed game against Milwaukee due to left ankle injury management, though travel issues stemming from inclement weather prevented the Mavericks from flying. He was later upgraded to questionable for Wednesday’s matchup against Minnesota.

Mavericks coach Jason Kidd said Flagg took part in portions of practice and pointed to the Rising Stars nod as recognition of his performance to date.

“It’s well-deserved,” Kidd said. “What he’s done in the first half of the season, representing himself and the Mavs, he’s earned that opportunity.”

For Flagg, the Rising Stars selection represents progress rather than arrival — a checkpoint reached in a demanding rookie season, and another opportunity to measure his game on a bigger stage.

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