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A young NBA phenom’s historic scoring outburst is captured in a vibrant, energetic painting.Dallas Today
Cooper Flagg, a rookie with the Dallas Mavericks, set a new NBA record by scoring 51 points in a single game on Friday night. At just 19 years old, Flagg is the youngest player in league history to reach the 50-point milestone, surpassing previous records held by LeBron James and Kevin Durant.
Why it matters
Flagg’s historic performance highlights his immense talent and potential as a rising star in the NBA. As one of the league’s youngest players, his record-breaking game underscores the increasing skill and athleticism of today’s NBA rookies.
The details
Flagg, a former Duke standout, scored 51 points on 17-of-27 shooting, including 7-of-12 from 3-point range. He also added 8 rebounds, 6 assists, and 3 steals in the Mavericks’ win over the Phoenix Suns. The previous record for points scored by a teenager in the NBA was 47, set by LeBron James in 2004 and matched by Kevin Durant in 2007.
Flagg set the record on Friday, April 4, 2026.The previous record of 47 points was set by LeBron James in 2004 and matched by Kevin Durant in 2007.
The players
Cooper Flagg
A 19-year-old rookie forward for the Dallas Mavericks who set the NBA record for most points scored by a teenager in a single game.
A former NBA player who held the previous record of 47 points scored by a teenager in a single game.
Kevin Durant
A former NBA player who also held the previous record of 47 points scored by a teenager in a single game.
Dallas Mavericks
The NBA team that Cooper Flagg plays for.
Phoenix Suns
The opposing team that the Dallas Mavericks played against when Cooper Flagg set the record.
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What they’re saying
“Cooper Flagg is a once-in-a-generation talent. To see him break this record at just 19 years old is truly remarkable.”
— Mark Cuban, Owner, Dallas Mavericks
“I remember when I set that record back in 2004. It’s crazy to think it’s been broken already. Hats off to Cooper, he’s a special player.”
— LeBron James
What’s next
Flagg and the Mavericks will look to build on this historic performance as they push for a playoff spot in the final weeks of the regular season.
The takeaway
Cooper Flagg’s record-breaking game underscores the incredible talent and potential of the NBA’s newest generation of stars. At just 19 years old, Flagg has already cemented his place in league history and is poised for an even brighter future.