Cooper Flagg Admits Disappointment Over Rookie of the Year Race

Dallas Mavericks star and Charlotte's Kon Knueppel locked in historic battle for NBA's top rookie honor.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 6:34am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the action and energy of a basketball game, with sharp, overlapping shapes and planes in a bold color scheme conveying the competitive spirit of the Rookie of the Year race.The intense battle between two top NBA rookies has produced a season for the ages.Charlotte Today

Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg has been locked in a tight race for NBA Rookie of the Year with Charlotte's Kon Knueppel. Flagg, the first overall pick in last year's draft, admitted he would be disappointed if he doesn't win the award after striving for it all season. Flagg averaged 21 points, 6.7 rebounds and 4.5 assists, while Knueppel, the 4th overall pick, put up 18.5 points, 5.3 rebounds and 3.4 assists for the Hornets.

Why it matters

The 2025-26 NBA season has produced one of the greatest Rookie of the Year battles in recent memory, with Flagg and Knueppel emerging as the frontrunners. Their stellar statistical seasons have helped transform their respective franchises, with the Mavericks and Hornets both in playoff contention.

The details

Cooper Flagg was selected 1st overall by the Dallas Mavericks in last year's draft, while Kon Knueppel was picked 4th by the Charlotte Hornets. Flagg averaged 21 points, 6.7 rebounds and 4.5 assists per game, playing in 70 games. Knueppel put up 18.5 points, 5.3 rebounds and 3.4 assists per game, missing just one contest.

  • The 2025-26 NBA regular season concluded recently.

The players

Cooper Flagg

A rookie forward for the Dallas Mavericks, selected 1st overall in the 2025 NBA Draft.

Kon Knueppel

A rookie forward for the Charlotte Hornets, selected 4th overall in the 2025 NBA Draft.

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What they’re saying

“I'd be disappointed. It's something that I think all rookies come out and they strive for. And that's the award they want to get, so I would definitely be disappointed.”

— Cooper Flagg, Dallas Mavericks Player

What’s next

The NBA will announce the Rookie of the Year award winner in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

The intense battle between Flagg and Knueppel for Rookie of the Year has been a highlight of the 2025-26 NBA season, showcasing the league's bright young talent and the competitive drive of elite rookies.