While Kyrie Irving recovers from a torn ACL, the veteran guard has proven to be a valuable resource for Cooper Flagg.
In a recent interview with ESPN’s Malika Andrews, Flagg gave Irving credit for helping him through some early-season struggles. Throughout the 2025-26 campaign, Flagg has emerged as one of the NBA’s top young players.
“[Irving] was that top pick and was kind of thrown into the fire. He stepped in as a great vet for me and was there kind of giving me guidance,” the Mavericks’ rookie star said. “There was definitely times where I was shaken up. I never lost that much in my life. Just to hear him say that and tell me that I’m doing everything I need to be doing, just to stay with it and stay positive, it definitely helped me out a lot.”
Flagg added that he has learned a lot about adversity this season. His main focus is on winning, but he’s learned to find positives in every situation.
Mavericks
As the 2025-26 season winds down, Flagg has found himself in a tight race with former Duke teammate Kon Knueppel for the league’s Rookie of the Year award. Flagg said it’s “incredible” to share those rookie battles with another former Duke standout.
Flagg described his meeting with Knueppel on Jan. 29 as one of his favorite games of the season.
“I know Kon better than a lot of people. I know what his work ethic is like. I know his drive and how much of a competitor he is,” Flagg said.
Flagg has appeared in 56 games for the Mavericks in his rookie campaign, averaging 20.2 points, 6.6 rebounds and 4.4 assists.
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