Nov 17, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg (32) looks on against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first half at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images

'He’s Not Afraid' – Dallas Mavericks Coach Lauds Cooper Flagg’s Late-Game Poise in NBA Cup Win Vs. New Orleans Pelicans

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Jordan Samar | Last updated Nov 22, 2025 6:00 AM ET

Cooper Flagg’s return from a one-game absence certainly lifted the Dallas Mavericks’ spirits, as he led them to an 118-115 NBA Cup win on Friday night to snap their two-game skid.

The rookie swingman outdueled his high school teammate, New Orleans Pelicans center Derik Queen, by producing 29 points (12 in the final period), seven rebounds, five assists, and two steals on 12-for-19 shooting from the field. No one could be happier with Flagg’s clutch performance than Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd.

“Clutch (situations), he’s not afraid,” Kidd said of Flagg via ESPN’s Tim MacMahon. “We get him the ball, and he seems like he’s been there before. Being able to score when you need a bucket, when everyone knows that you’re coming to him, he’s deliberate. For an 18-year-old, that’s pretty special.”

Former NBA Star Reflects on Cooper Flagg’s Slow Start - “You Gotta Fail in Order to Grow and Get Better” 3 Jun 27, 2025; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Mavericks first overall pick Cooper Flagg (left) looks on with head coach Jason Kidd (right) at a press conference at the Dallas Mavericks Practice Facility. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

“He’s blossoming into who we all know he is, ” PJ Washington added. “Just being himself, taking on the big moments and converting. Getting to the paint, getting to his spots, and making the right decision each and every time.”

Dallas Mavericks News: Cooper Flagg hits young-man milestones in victory vs. New Orleans Pelicans

Cooper Flagg channeled his inner LeBron James to lead the Dallas Mavericks past the New Orleans Pelicans. According to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, he joined the Los Angeles Lakers star to become the only 18-year-olds in NBA history to record at least 25 points, five rebounds, and five assists in a game.

Nov 5, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg (32) dribbles during the second half against the New Orleans Pelicans at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images. NBA Fans

Flagg also notched 20 points in the paint, becoming the second-youngest player to do so in an NBA match. MacMahon pointed out that James did the feat with the Cleveland Cavaliers when he was 18 years and 334 days old.

With Flagg back in tow, the Dallas Mavericks hope to build a new winning streak when they square off against the Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday.