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Cooper Flagg’s Mom Gets Upset Over Mavericks Rookie’s Treatment in the NBA

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Abdul Bari Khan | Last updated Apr 6, 2026 11:57 AM ET

Cooper Flagg has proven time and again that he is NBA-ready as he continues his rookie season. But along with his talent, the Mavericks star has also faced challenges dealing with aggressive fouls. Fortunately for him, his mother has often spoken up on his behalf.

Flagg made history on Sunday by breaking LeBron James’ record for the most 40+ point games by a teenager in NBA history. While the moment called for celebration, his mother, Kelly Flagg, was distracted by a clip from the previous game. Prior to Dallas’ 134–128 win over the Lakers, the Mavericks faced the Magic.

During one play, Desmond Bane allegedly grabbed Flagg’s elbow as the rookie drove to the rim. However, no foul was called despite the 19-year-old’s continued appeals. “Incomprehensible that three refs can all miss such an obvious call given Coop has the ball in his hands,” a fan wrote on the resurfaced clip.

Desmond Bane clearly pulls Cooper Flagg’s elbow down on this shot attempt, foul isn’t called.

Flagg is heated, Jason Kidd gets ejected defending Flagg. pic.twitter.com/J9Jb9etv02
— Landon Thomas (@sixfivelando) April 4, 2026

Kelly responded to the post, “It was so ridiculous and it happens almost every game. They treat him like a frickin’ piñata.” This isn’t the first time fans, or Flagg’s mother, have raised concerns about officiating. The criticism surrounding the lack of foul calls in Cooper’s favor has been an ongoing issue for the Mavericks.

Despite keeping her X account private, Kelly Flagg continues to share strong opinions about the league’s referees. However, the situation remains unchanged, as Flagg continues to battle the NBA’s physicality in every game.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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