Rookie Breaks NBA Teen Scoring Record
The NBA witnessed a remarkable milestone as Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg broke the record for points scored by a teenager. Flagg achieved this feat by scoring 49 points during a game against the Charlotte Hornets, despite the Mavericks losing 123-121. This performance not only set a new franchise record but also surpassed the previous NBA teenage scoring record.
Historic Performance
Prior to Flagg’s achievement, the previous record was held by Cliff Robinson, who scored 45 points for the New Jersey Nets in 1980 at age 19. Flagg, who turned 19 in December, expressed gratitude for this historic moment, especially with Mavericks legend Mark Aguirre—whose jersey was retired during halftime—present at the game. “It’s a pretty cool thing,” Flagg remarked about breaking Aguirre’s rookie-scoring record, which he previously shared with him.
A Game of Records
Flagg’s performance was marked by a slow start; he managed only one basket in the first quarter as the Mavericks trailed by 15 points. However, he surged in the second quarter, scoring 23 points by hitting 8 of 9 shots, including two three-pointers and making all five of his free throws. By halftime, Flagg had accumulated a total of 25 points, marking the highest individual output for Dallas this season.
- Cooper Flagg: Scored 49 points, breaking NBA teen record.
- Previous Record: Cliff Robinson with 45 points (March 9, 1980).
- Historic Context: Flagg surpassed Aguirre’s franchise rookie record.
- First Quarter Struggles: 1 for 4 shooting, 15-point deficit.
- Second Quarter Surge: 8 of 9 shooting, 23 points scored.
Rivalry and Camaraderie
Another intriguing aspect of the game was Flagg’s match-up against Kon Knueppel, his former college roommate at Duke and the fourth overall pick in the draft. Knueppel also excelled, scoring 34 points and sealing the victory for Charlotte with two free throws in the dying seconds. The camaraderie and friendly competition were evident as Flagg referred to Knueppel as his “brother for life.”
Looking Ahead
The two players, both strong candidates for the Rookie of the Year title, averaged impressive scores through the season, with Flagg at 19.5 points per game and Knueppel at 18.9. Their next encounter is scheduled for March 3 in Charlotte, setting the stage for another potential memorable showdown.
The night was historic not only for Cooper Flagg but for the entire Mavericks organization, marking a significant moment in NBA history. “We’ll both be looking back on this night and this whole year in general the rest of our lives,” Flagg concluded, emphasizing the personal significance of the game.
