Cooper Flagg makes all kinds of team, NBA history in Mavericks’ OT loss to Utah Jazz Cooper Flagg showed all parts of his game as he exploded for 42 points on Monday night.

Cooper Flagg Makes NBA History with Career-High 42 Points, But Mavericks Fall in OT Thriller to Jazz

In a heartbreaking 140-133 overtime loss to the Utah Jazz on December 15, 2025, Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg delivered one of the most explosive performances by a teenager in NBA history. The 18-year-old forward erupted for a career-high 42 points, becoming the youngest player ever—and the first 18-year-old—to score 40+ points in a game, surpassing LeBron James’ previous mark of 37 points set in 2003.

Flagg’s full stat line was impressive: 42 points (13-27 FG, 1-4 3PT, 15-20 FT), 7 rebounds, 6 assists, 1 steal, and 2 blocks in 42 minutes. He tied Mark Aguirre for the second-most points by a Mavericks rookie in franchise history and joined elite company as one of only three teenagers ever (alongside LeBron and Kevin Durant) to post at least 40 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists in a game.

Key Highlights from Flagg’s Night:

• Scored 24 points in the first half alone, showcasing aggressive drives and touch around the rim.
• Went to the line relentlessly (15-20 FT), drawing fouls and converting at a high rate.
• Helped force overtime with a clutch sequence: Down 3 late in regulation, he made a tough layup while fouled, then intentionally missed the second free throw. Teammate Max Christie grabbed the rebound, got fouled, and hit both to tie it.
• Added playmaking and defense, displaying the all-around game that made him the No. 1 pick in the 2025 draft.

Despite Flagg’s heroics—especially with Anthony Davis sidelined by a calf injury—the Mavericks couldn’t close it out. Utah’s Keyonte George (37 points) and Lauri Markkanen (33 points, 16 rebounds) led a late 11-0 run in regulation, and the Jazz dominated overtime 11-4.

Flagg, whose 19th birthday is just days away, also climbed the all-time teenage scoring lists, passing Tracy McGrady and now trailing only LeBron James and Kobe Bryant in points before age 19.

Postgame, Flagg focused on the loss: “It’s cool, but it would’ve been great to get a win. That’s what I’m more focused on.”

This performance solidifies Flagg as a generational talent and the clear frontrunner for Rookie of the Year, even as the Mavericks drop to 10-17. Dallas hosts the Detroit Pistons next on Thursday.