UPDATE: In a thrilling showdown on January 25, 2024, Cooper Flagg of the Dallas Mavericks scored an astounding 49 points, setting a new record for the most points by a teenager in NBA history. However, it was Kon Knueppel of the Charlotte Hornets who clinched the 123-121 victory with clutch plays in the final moments at the American Airlines Center.
The matchup marked a historic moment, featuring two frontrunners for the Rookie of the Year award, captivating fans in Dallas. Flagg’s record-setting performance broke the previous Mavericks rookie record he shared with Mark Aguirre, celebrated during a halftime ceremony when Aguirre’s No. 24 jersey was retired.
Knueppel, the No. 4 pick in the recent draft, contributed 34 points and executed a game-changing turnover against Flagg with just 7.6 seconds left, followed by hitting critical free throws after drawing a foul. His efforts secured the Hornets’ fifth consecutive win, leaving fans and analysts in awe.
“Just a crazy ending to a phenomenal game,” Knueppel said, acknowledging Flagg’s impressive display. “He was the best player on the floor tonight.”
The stakes were high as both players entered the game with the best odds for Rookie of the Year, creating buzz around this late-January clash between two teams below playoff contention. Together, they made history as the first pair of college teammates to each score at least 30 points in a rookie matchup, with their combined 83 points marking the highest total by rookies since 1971.
Flagg’s performance not only highlighted his scoring ability but showcased his growth as he joined legends like LeBron James and Anthony Edwards as the only teenagers with multiple 40-point games in NBA history. He finished the night with 20-of-29 shooting and dominated the paint with 28 points inside.
Despite Flagg’s heroics, he reflected on the game’s final moments, admitting, “I’m trying to learn still end-of-game situations.” His drive to improve signals his determination to become a top player in the league.
Knueppel, who set a franchise rookie record with eight 3-pointers, acknowledged that Flagg’s record-setting night would likely bolster his Rookie of the Year candidacy. “I think he’s probably going to jump me with 49 points, but it is what it is,” he stated. “An award like that is cool, but whoever gets it, I’ll be happy for him.”
The night concluded with a missed jumper from Flagg as time expired, a testament to the fierce competition and the high stakes of the game. Mavericks coach Jason Kidd praised Flagg’s mindset, stating, “For a young man who thinks that way, he’s going to be a champion sooner than later.”
As fans continue to discuss this electrifying matchup, all eyes will be on Flagg and Knueppel as they navigate their rookie seasons, with both players poised to impact the league for years to come.
