Mavericks' Rookie Sensation Cooper Flagg to Miss Rising Stars Game

Flagg's left midfoot sprain will sideline him for NBA All-Star weekend festivities

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick in last summer's draft, will miss the upcoming NBA All-Star weekend festivities, including the Castrol Rising Stars game, due to a left midfoot sprain. Flagg, who has been a bright spot for the struggling Mavericks, is not expected to miss significant time beyond the All-Star break.

Why it matters

Flagg has quickly emerged as a focal point for the Mavericks, averaging 20.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game. His absence from the Rising Stars game is a disappointment for fans who were eager to see the talented rookie showcase his skills alongside the league's other young stars.

The details

Flagg's injury occurred during Tuesday's 120-111 loss to the Phoenix Suns, where he still managed to score 27 points in 36 minutes. The Mavericks are currently on an eight-game losing streak and hold a 19-34 record, placing them 12th in the Western Conference. The team has also recently traded away 10-time All-Star Anthony Davis in a deal that sent Luka Doncic to the Lakers.

  • Flagg's injury occurred during Tuesday's game against the Phoenix Suns.
  • Flagg will miss Thursday's game against the Los Angeles Lakers and the Rising Stars game.
  • The Mavericks return to action on February 20th against the Minnesota Timberwolves, giving Flagg over a week to recover.

The players

Cooper Flagg

A rookie sensation for the Dallas Mavericks, Flagg has quickly become a focal point for the team, averaging 20.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game.

Dallas Mavericks

The NBA team that Cooper Flagg plays for, currently on an eight-game losing streak and holding a 19-34 record, placing them 12th in the Western Conference.

Luka Doncic

The star player for the Dallas Mavericks who was recently traded to the Los Angeles Lakers in a deal that sent 10-time All-Star Anthony Davis to the Mavericks.

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What they’re saying

“Cooper Flagg's injury is a setback for the Mavericks, but we're confident he'll make a full recovery and be back on the court soon.”

— Mark Cuban, Owner, Dallas Mavericks (Dallas Morning News)

What’s next

The NBA league office will select a replacement for Flagg on the Rising Stars game roster. The Mavericks will return to action on February 20th against the Minnesota Timberwolves, giving Flagg over a week to recover from his midfoot sprain.

The takeaway

Flagg's injury is a setback for the Mavericks, who are already struggling this season, but the team is optimistic he will make a full recovery and return to the court after the All-Star break. His absence from the Rising Stars game is a disappointment for fans, but it will provide an opportunity for another young player to showcase their talents.