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Dallas Mavericks star warns Cooper Flagg to avoid ‘one guy’ mentality ahead of challenging rookie season

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Aaditya Krishnamurthy | Last updated Oct 4, 2025 9:00 AM ET

One Dallas Mavericks player spoke to Cooper Flagg during preseason training and encouraged him to focus on the team next season.

All eyes are going to be on Cooper Flagg, as the Dallas Mavericks’ #1 overall pick looks set for a strong rookie season.

After an impressive Summer League run for Flagg, he is now with the Mavericks as part of their preseason camp.

So far, Flagg has impressed veterans like Klay Thompson with his attitude and performance in training. But Anthony Davis warned Flagg about being hesitant in practice, telling him to take charge more.

And now, we’ve learned that another Mavericks star spoke to him during their preseason camp and urged him not to get caught up in the hysteria surrounding his rookie season.

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Dereck Lively II told Cooper Flagg to focus on his game; Mavericks squad has his back

Dereck Lively II spoke to reporters at Dallas Mavericks training camp. When one reporter asked him about Cooper Flagg, Lively was very complimentary of him.

He praised Flagg for trying to ask as many questions as possible. However, he did tell Flagg not to get bogged down by people targeting him next season, as the rest of the team will always support him.

“Great! He’s been a sponge. He’s out here asking questions, trying to understand the game. You know he’s the #1 pick, so everyone is going to try and challenge him, go at him, and try to pick on him.

“I’m just trying to show him that, ‘Look, you’re not one guy. We’re a team. If they’re picking on you, we’re all going to pick on them.’

“We’re making sure we got his back. We’re going to pick him up no matter what happens. Good game, bad game, we’re always going to be there for him.”

Cooper Flagg will make preseason debut this week

The Dallas Mavericks are set to begin their preseason on Monday night, as they face the Oklahoma City Thunder.

It can be daunting to make your NBA debut (even in the preseason) against the reigning NBA champions and potentially playing against the league MVP, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

Flagg will likely get some decent minutes, presumably in the 18-20 minute range, and have the chance to make an impact on both ends.

How well can Flagg do? Given the low intensity of preseason basketball, Flagg will have the opportunity to get his rhythm ahead of the NBA season beginning at the end of October.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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