Mavericks Rookie Cooper Flagg Sidelined for NBA Rising Stars Game

Flagg will miss the showcase event due to a left midfoot sprain injury.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg, one of the most exciting young players in the NBA, will not be participating in the NBA Rising Stars game during All-Star weekend due to a left midfoot sprain injury. Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, has been a standout this season, averaging 20.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game. He recently set an NBA teenager record by scoring 49 points in a game on January 29th. The Mavericks have been struggling without Flagg, losing 9 straight games heading into the All-Star break.

Why it matters

Flagg's absence from the Rising Stars game is a disappointment for basketball fans who were eager to see the talented rookie showcase his skills on the national stage. As one of the most promising young players in the league, Flagg's participation in the event would have provided greater exposure and an opportunity for fans to see his dynamic playstyle up close.

The details

Flagg suffered the left midfoot sprain injury during the Mavericks' game against the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday, in which he scored 27 points in 36 minutes of action. An MRI on Wednesday revealed the extent of the injury, leading the team to rule him out of the Rising Stars game. The Mavericks have been in a slump, losing 9 consecutive games heading into the All-Star break, and will hope to have Flagg back on the court when they return to action on February 20th against the Timberwolves.

  • Flagg suffered the injury on Tuesday, February 14th.
  • An MRI on Wednesday, February 15th, revealed the left midfoot sprain.
  • Flagg will miss the Rising Stars game, which takes place during NBA All-Star weekend on February 17th-19th.
  • The Mavericks' next game is on Friday, February 20th, against the Timberwolves.

The players

Cooper Flagg

The Dallas Mavericks' rookie sensation, who was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Flagg has been one of the most exciting young players in the league this season, 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 a 9-game losing streak heading into the All-Star break.

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What’s next

The Mavericks will hope to have Flagg back on the court when they return to action on Friday, February 20th, against the Timberwolves.

The takeaway

Cooper Flagg's absence from the NBA Rising Stars game is a disappointment for basketball fans, as the talented rookie has been one of the most exciting young players in the league this season. However, the Mavericks will focus on getting Flagg healthy and back on the court as they look to end their 9-game losing streak after the All-Star break.