Cooper Flagg concludes preseason with double-double for Mavericks

Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg finished the NBA preseason with a double-double performance in a 135-111 loss to the Atlanta Hawks. The reigning Rookie of the Year recorded 26 points, 12 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block in 30 minutes of play.

Despite the preseason loss, Flagg has emphasized a focus on long-term development and the daily process rather than individual accolades. Following a rookie season where he averaged 21.0 points and 6.7 rebounds, Flagg aims to prioritize hard work and incremental progress over immediate All-Star or All-NBA recognition.

Mavericks head coach Dusty May noted that while the team finished the preseason with a 1-3 record, there are positive signs regarding the starting lineup, which includes Flagg, Kyrie Irving, Zaccharie Risacher, Daniel Gafford, and P. J. Washington. May highlighted the need for defensive improvements and better ball movement as the team prepares for the regular season.