Dallas Mavericks Rookie Cooper Flagg Makes NBA History

Flagg's 47-point performance against the Lakers sets a new record for most 40-point games by a teenager in the league.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 2:18am

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Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg made NBA history on Sunday night with a dominant 47-point, 8-rebound, 9-assist performance in a 134-128 win over the Los Angeles Lakers. Flagg's scoring outburst set a new record for the most 40-point games by a teenager in league history, surpassing LeBron James.

Why it matters

Flagg's historic night showcases the immense talent and potential of the young Mavericks star, who is having an outstanding rookie season. His ability to take over games at just 19 years old has Dallas fans excited about the team's future with Flagg leading the way.

The details

In 39 minutes of action, Flagg shot 14-of-27 from the field and 2-of-4 from three-point range. He also contributed 8 rebounds, 9 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block. Flagg's performance marked the second consecutive game in which he scored 40-plus points, making him the first rookie to accomplish that feat since Allen Iverson in 1997.

  • On Sunday, April 6, 2026, the Dallas Mavericks hosted the Los Angeles Lakers.
  • Flagg's 47-point game set the new NBA record for most 40-point games by a teenager.

The players

Cooper Flagg

A 19-year-old rookie forward for the Dallas Mavericks who is having an outstanding debut season in the NBA.

LeBron James

A legendary NBA player whose previous record for most 40-point games by a teenager was surpassed by Flagg.

Allen Iverson

A Hall of Fame NBA player who was the last rookie to score 40-plus points in back-to-back games before Flagg accomplished the feat.

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What they’re saying

“Cooper Flagg passes LeBron James for the most 40-point games by a teenager in NBA history.”

— Real App

“Cooper Flagg last two games: 45 PTS 9 AST 8 REB 14-27 FG 2-4 3PT 51 PTS 6 REB 3 STL 19-30 FG 6-9 3PT First rookie since Allen Iverson in 1997 with 40+ PTS in back-to-back games.”

— Underdog NBA

What’s next

Flagg and the Mavericks will look to continue their strong play as they push for a playoff spot in the Western Conference. The team's next game is on Tuesday, April 8th against the Phoenix Suns.

The takeaway

Cooper Flagg's historic performance against the Lakers showcases the immense talent and potential of the young Mavericks star. His ability to take over games at just 19 years old has Dallas fans excited about the team's future, as Flagg looks poised to become one of the league's next superstars.