The Dallas Mavericks are laying the groundwork for a new era, and it starts in Las Vegas.
Before heading west for the NBA Summer League, the team held its first practice in Dallas on Tuesday, an early opportunity to begin shaping No.1 overall pick Cooper Flagg into the franchise cornerstone they envision.
Flagg, along with teammate Ryan Nembhard and Summer League head coach Josh Broghamer, spoke with reporters following the session.
The mood was focused and forward-looking, but the spotlight remained fixed on the 18-year-old rookie who’s already generating immense buzz.
Dallas focusing on development, not just highlights
As Flagg gears up for his NBA debut, the Mavericks are taking a patient approach to his involvement in Summer League.
When asked how many games Flagg will play, Broghamer made it clear there’s no set plan just yet.
“We will take it day-by-day,” Broghamer explained. “Once we get out to Vegas, kind of figure out the schedule and see how he does starting with the Lakers and then go from there.”
That flexible approach extends to Flagg‘s role on the floor. Instead of scripting specific responsibilities, Dallas is prioritizing adaptability.
According to Broghamer, Flagg is being pushed into different roles during practice to test the limits of his skill set.
“He can do so many different things,” Broghamer continued. “On the ball, off the ball, guarding, playmaking…
“We’re trying to keep it simple and let him play his game, which touches a lot of areas.”
The Mavericks aren’t easing Flagg into anything. In practice, the coaching staff challenged him on both ends of the court.
“We had him guard the ball, guard the bigs, handle the ball in different spots,” Broghamer explained.
“It’s about putting him in uncomfortable situations to see how he responds.”
For Flagg, that kind of experimentation is welcome. Reflecting on his time at Duke, he pointed to his versatility in the half-court as proof he’s ready for a bigger role.
“Coach Scheyer trusted me a lot last year. I handled the ball a lot-didn’t bring it up the floor too much, but I set up actions and made plays,” Flagg confirmed.
“It’s something I think I can do really well, and I’m excited to try new things.”
While fans may be eager to see Flagg light up the scoreboard in Las Vegas, Dallas has a bigger goal: growth.
Each possession, matchup, and adjustment offers insight into how Flagg can impact the game long-term, not just in July, but for years to come.
The Mavericks will hold one final practice on Wednesday before flying to Las Vegas. Their Summer League opener against the Los Angeles Lakers is scheduled for Thursday night.
For Flagg, it marks the first official step in his NBA journey, and the beginning of a new chapter for the Dallas Mavericks.
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