Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
Rookie Cooper Flagg of the Dallas Mavericks broke a record held by LeBron James for over 20 years by scoring 42 points in Monday’s 140-133 overtime loss to the Utah Jazz. At 18 years old, Flagg now holds the record for the most points scored by a player of his age in NBA history, surpassing James’ 37 points in December 2003.
Flagg helped the Mavericks tie the game in the final seconds of the fourth quarter with an impressive free-throw sequence, forcing overtime. He scored 40 points in regulation and added 2 more in the extra period, but Dallas could not secure the win. Anthony Davis missed the game due to a left calf injury.
Most of Flagg’s scoring came near the basket and from the free-throw line. He shot 9-of-17 inside the lane and made 15 of 20 free throws, including 24 points in the first half. His 42 points tied the record for the most scored by a Mavericks rookie, previously matched by Mark Aguirre in 1981.
Earlier in the season, Flagg had a slow start when playing out of position at point guard. Returning to his natural forward role, he has shown why he was the top pick in last summer’s NBA Draft. Along with scoring, he added seven rebounds, six assists, and two blocks in the game.
Although the Mavericks lost, Flagg’s performance is the best of his young career. He will have two more chances to break his own record in upcoming games against the Detroit Pistons and the Philadelphia 76ers. Flagg will turn 19 on Sunday, marking a milestone shortly after his historic achievement.
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