Mavericks' Cooper Flagg 'blessed' to join former teammates at Rising Stars challenge

Kon Knueppel, who played with Flagg at Duke, and Derik Queen, who played with Flagg in high school, were also selected.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 5:39pm

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Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg has been selected to participate in the NBA's Rising Stars challenge during All-Star Weekend, joining former teammates Kon Knueppel and Derik Queen who were also chosen for the event. Flagg expressed his gratitude for the honor and the opportunity to potentially play alongside his former college and high school teammates.

Why it matters

Flagg's selection to the Rising Stars challenge is a recognition of his strong performance in the first half of the season, despite the Mavericks' struggles to stay in playoff position. The event showcases the league's top young talent and provides an opportunity for Flagg to compete against and alongside some of the NBA's future stars.

The details

Cooper Flagg is one of 10 rookies selected to participate in the Rising Stars challenge, which also includes 11 sophomores and 7 G League players. Flagg is the 13th player in Mavericks franchise history to be chosen for the event, which was formerly known as the Rookie-Sophomore Challenge. Flagg's former teammates Kon Knueppel and Derik Queen were also selected, and Flagg said it would be 'really cool' to be drafted onto the same team as them.

  • The Rising Stars Draft will be held on Tuesday at 5 p.m. Central on Peacock.
  • The Mavericks were unable to travel to Milwaukee for a postponed road game against the Bucks over the weekend due to inclement weather in Dallas.
  • Flagg was originally doubtful for Wednesday's game against the Minnesota Timberwolves due to a left ankle injury, but was upgraded to questionable after participating in a portion of practice.

The players

Cooper Flagg

A rookie for the Dallas Mavericks who has been selected to participate in the NBA's Rising Stars challenge during All-Star Weekend.

Kon Knueppel

A rookie for the Charlotte Hornets who played with Flagg at Duke University.

Derik Queen

A player who was selected to the Rising Stars challenge and played with Flagg in high school.

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What they’re saying

“It means a lot. I feel blessed. It's kind of an outcome of all the hard work I've put in. Obviously, the start of the season and the way things have gone, we wish they would've gone better, but everything happens for a reason. I feel really blessed and honored.”

— Cooper Flagg, Mavericks Rookie

“He's been incredible since being roommates last year to now. Obviously want to stay in touch. It's been really busy. He's been really impressive. Nothing new to me. I know what he's capable of. I know what to expect. I'm really happy for him.”

— Cooper Flagg, Mavericks Rookie

What’s next

The Rising Stars Draft will be held on Tuesday at 5 p.m. Central on Peacock, where the three teams of NBA players will be drafted by honorary coaches Carmelo Anthony, Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady.

The takeaway

Flagg's selection to the Rising Stars challenge is a testament to his strong individual performance this season, despite the Mavericks' struggles as a team. The opportunity to compete alongside former teammates Kon Knueppel and Derik Queen adds an extra layer of excitement and camaraderie to the event for Flagg.