Cooper Flagg's Gesture Toward Mac McClung Catches Attention During Mavericks Game

“Flagg has worked really hard to be tall,” one comment read.

Another mocked the celebration, saying, “As if Mac couldn’t slam it on his head.”

Others criticized Flagg’s decision to target McClung, who has built a reputation as a hard-working underdog. 

"What has Flagg done compared to the GOAT," a commenter asked.

“Man U don’t do that against a career g leaguer! Can’t believe this guy,” one post said. 

“Flagg needs to be humbled. He’s been humbling himself this entire start to the season,” another chimed in.

Perhaps the most lighthearted take came from a fan who wrote, “He needs to chill, it’s just Mac McClung .”

Cooper Flagg Rises Amid Mavericks’ Injury Troubles

Despite the online criticism, Flagg appeared unfazed after the game, keeping his focus on helping Dallas stay competitive amid their injury challenges. 

Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, finished the game with 15 points and 10 rebounds, marking his second career double-double as the Mavericks edged out the Pacers, 107–105. His performance helped Dallas overcome the loss of Anthony Davis, who exited in the first quarter with a left leg injury.

The Mavericks, now 2–3, have had a rough start to the season, dealing with injuries to Anthony Davis, Kyrie Irving, Dereck Lively II, Daniel Gafford and Dante Exum. With Davis out against the Pacers, head coach Jason Kidd turned again to Flagg, who played more than 30 minutes and led the team’s starters in scoring.

Mac McClung’s New Chapter with the Pacers

For McClung, Wednesday was also a milestone. The reigning three-time NBA Dunk Contest champion recently signed a multi-year contract with the Pacers after a long journey through the G League and multiple short NBA stints. His first bucket for Indiana, a four-point play in the second quarter, drew cheers from fans who have followed his rise as one of the league’s most exciting underdogs.

After going undrafted in 2021, he bounced between teams, spending time with the Los Angeles Lakers, Chicago Bulls, Philadelphia 76ers and Orlando Magic, and made history as the first G League player to win the dunk contest. 

That’s what made Flagg’s gesture sting more to some fans; the rookie celebrating over a player who had fought for years just to get a roster spot.