Steph Curry Praises Cooper Flagg’s Historic Rookie Christmas Debut

The Dallas Mavericks lost to the Golden State Warriors on Christmas Day. The final score was 126-116. Rookie sensation Cooper Flagg made his NBA Christmas debut in the game. He delivered another stunning performance for Dallas.

The number one overall pick scored 27 points in the high-profile matchup. He added six rebounds and five assists. His effort was not enough for a team win, but it cemented his rising star status immediately.

Flagg Enters Elite Holiday Company With Stellar Stat Line

Cooper Flagg’s 27-point outing placed him in rare historical company. According to NBA statistics, he became just the 18th rookie ever to score 25 or more points on Christmas. He is only the fifth rookie to do it in the last four decades.

He joins a short list featuring Patrick Ewing, LeBron James, Kyle Kuzma, and Jaime Jaquez Jr. Legends like Wilt Chamberlain and Oscar Robertson also achieved the feat in earlier eras. Flagg’s full line of points, rebounds, and assists made his night even more special.

Only Robertson and Pete Maravich had recorded such a stat line as rookies on Christmas before. The performance highlighted Flagg’s all-around game and poise. It confirmed why he was the consensus top selection in last summer’s draft.

Warriors Star Stephen Curry Lauds Rookie’s Bright Future

After the final buzzer, Warriors veteran Stephen Curry offered significant praise. He called Flagg a “true hooper” and a fierce competitor. Curry noted that it’s easy to forget how young the rookie is during play.

“You forget how young he is, just his presence out there on the court,” Curry said. He added that the league’s future is in good hands. Curry was impressed by Flagg’s composure under the bright holiday lights.

Their connection goes back a few years. Flagg previously attended Curry’s elite skills camp. Curry said he saw Flagg again with the USA Select Team last summer. The Warriors guard stated the rookie’s early success is no surprise to him.

“Plays well beyond his years, and just his basketball IQ, you can tell,” Curry reiterated in his postgame press conference. He told reporters that Flagg’s career journey is one fans will want to follow closely. The endorsement from a four-time champion carries major weight.

The loss dropped the Mavericks to a 12-20 record this season. An injury to star Anthony Davis compounded the team’s challenges. He left in the second quarter with right groin spasms and did not return.

The injury underscores the team’s current instability. It also reinforces the urgent need to build a consistent roster around their phenomenal rookie. Flagg’s historic night proves he is ready to be a cornerstone, but he needs help.

Stephen Curry’s glowing review after Cooper Flagg’s Christmas debut signals the arrival of a new NBA icon. The rookie’s historic performance provides a bright spot for the Mavericks during a difficult season.

A quick knowledge drop for you

How did Cooper Flagg perform in his first Christmas NBA game?

Cooper Flagg was excellent. He scored 27 points, grabbed 6 rebounds, and dished 5 assists. He shot 13 for 21 from the field in the matchup against the Warriors.

What made Flagg’s Christmas performance historically significant?

He became the 18th rookie in NBA history to score 25+ points on Christmas. Only four other rookies have done it in the last 40 years. He also joined Oscar Robertson and Pete Maravich with a unique points-rebounds-assists line.

What is Stephen Curry’s previous connection to Cooper Flagg?

Flagg attended Stephen Curry’s skills camp a few years ago. Curry also observed him during workouts with the USA Basketball Select Team last summer. This gave Curry early insight into Flagg’s talent and mindset.

What was the final score of the Mavericks-Warriors Christmas game?

The Golden State Warriors defeated the Dallas Mavericks 126-116. The game was part of the NBA’s annual Christmas Day slate of marquee matchups.

How did Anthony Davis’s injury affect the Mavericks?

Anthony Davis left the game in the second quarter with a right groin injury. He did not return, weakening the Mavericks’ interior defense and scoring. His absence put more pressure on the rookie Flagg to carry the offensive load.

What does this loss mean for the Mavericks’ season?

The loss dropped Dallas to a 12-20 record. It highlights the team’s struggles and ongoing injury issues. The game reinforced that building a functional team around Flagg is the franchise’s immediate priority.

Trusted Sources: NBA Official Statistics, Reuters, Associated Press