Keyonte George and Lauri Markkanen Power Utah Jazz to Thrilling Overtime Victory Over Dallas Mavericks Despite Cooper Flagg’s Historic 42-Point Explosion
Salt Lake City, UT – December 15, 2025 – In a game that will be remembered for years as a clash of emerging stars and veteran resilience, the Utah Jazz edged out the Dallas Mavericks 140-133 in overtime on Monday night at the Delta Center. Keyonte George erupted for a game-high 37 points, while Lauri Markkanen dominated with 33 points and 16 rebounds, propelling the Jazz to just their second consecutive win of the season. But the night belonged as much to Dallas rookie sensation Cooper Flagg, who poured in a career-high 42 points – making NBA history as the first 18-year-old to score 40 or more in a game – only to see his heroic effort fall short in a heartbreaking loss.
The game was a rollercoaster from tip-off, featuring explosive scoring runs, clutch shots, and a dramatic finish that forced overtime. Both teams shot over 49% from the field in a high-octane affair that showcased the future of the league on full display. For the Jazz (now 10-15), it was a statement win fueled by their young backcourt and Markkanen’s All-Star caliber play. For the Mavericks (10-17), it was a painful “what if” despite Flagg’s record-setting performance in the absence of key players like Anthony Davis, sidelined with a calf injury.
A Historic Night for Cooper Flagg
Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft out of Duke, entered the game already turning heads with his recent hot streak – averaging 25.7 points over his last seven contests. But Monday night was on another level. The 18-year-old (turning 19 in just days) finished with 42 points on 13-of-27 shooting, including 15-of-20 from the free-throw line, while adding 7 rebounds and 6 assists.
Flagg became the youngest player in NBA history to score 40+ points, surpassing LeBron James’ mark of 37 points as an 18-year-old back in 2003. He also tied Mark Aguirre for the most points by a Mavericks rookie in franchise history. Flagg’s aggression was evident early: he dropped 14 points in the first quarter alone and had 24 by halftime, helping Dallas build a lead.
“I mean, it’s cool, but it would’ve been great to get a win,” Flagg said postgame, echoing the sentiment of many rookies chasing history in defeat. “That’s what I’m more focused on.”
His most memorable sequence came in the final seconds of regulation. Down three, Flagg drew a foul, made the first free throw, then intentionally missed the second. The miss caromed perfectly for teammate Max Christie, who grabbed the rebound, got fouled, and sank both free throws to tie the game at 129-129 and force overtime.
Yet, in the extra period, the Mavericks’ offense stalled. Dallas managed just 4 points in OT, with Flagg unable to get a field goal. The Jazz capitalized, outscoring Dallas 11-4 in the frame.
Keyonte George Emerges as Utah’s Leader
If Flagg stole the headlines for history, Keyonte George claimed the victory. The third-year guard out of Baylor delivered his second straight 30+ point game, scoring 37 on efficient 11-of-20 shooting (5-of-10 from three) with 6 assists and 5 rebounds. George was clutch throughout, scoring 5 of Utah’s 11 overtime points, including a pivotal 3-pointer and free throws early in OT to seize control.
George’s performance has been a revelation this season, easing defensive pressure on Markkanen and signaling his arrival as a potential cornerstone for the Jazz. “Keyonte was unbelievable tonight,” Jazz coach Will Hardy said. “He’s taking that next step, and it’s exciting to see.”
Lauri Markkanen was equally dominant, posting 33 points, 16 rebounds, 5 assists, and 4 steals. The Finnish star teamed with George for 9 of Utah’s 11 OT points, including a tip-in dunk and key defensive plays. Markkanen’s contested baseline jumper late in regulation kept Utah alive, and his all-around game was crucial in a double-double effort that highlighted why he’s averaging a career-high in points this season.
Rookie Kyle Filipowski provided the X-factor off the bench, scoring 25 points – 16 in the fourth quarter and OT – including a fadeaway jumper that helped seal the win. Isaiah Collier and Max Christie added timely buckets, while the Jazz bench outplayed Dallas’ depleted reserves.
Game Flow: Runs, Comebacks, and Overtime Drama
The Mavericks came out firing, posting a season-high 43 points in the first quarter behind Flagg’s hot start. Dallas led by as many as 8 points and took a 75-71 edge into halftime, with Flagg already at 24 points.
The third quarter saw more back-and-forth, ending with Dallas up 99-92. Early in the fourth, the Mavericks extended to a 103-94 lead. But Utah mounted an 11-0 run late, punctuated by Collier’s basket to take a 127-124 advantage with under a minute left. Dallas missed six straight shots during Utah’s surge, opening the door.
Flagg’s late heroics forced OT, but the Jazz dominated the extra frame. George hit free throws and a three to put Utah ahead for good, and Dallas didn’t score a field goal until P.J. Washington’s dunk with under a minute left. An 11-4 run capped by Markkanen’s tip-in and Filipowski’s jumper iced it.
For Dallas, P.J. Washington had a strong double-double with 25 points and 13 rebounds. Naji Marshall added 15, and Ryan Nembhard dished 11 assists with 14 points. But without Davis and facing injury issues, the Mavericks couldn’t match Utah’s depth in crunch time.
Implications and What’s Next
This win marks only the second time this season the Jazz have won back-to-back games, providing a much-needed boost for a young roster still finding its identity. George’s emergence alongside Markkanen gives Utah hope for the future, especially with talented rookies like Filipowski contributing.
For the Mavericks, Flagg’s historic night offers silver lining amid a frustrating season. His scoring outburst – especially aggressive drives and improved finishing – signals he’s accelerating his development faster than expected. Dallas has leaned heavily on the rookie with injuries piling up, and performances like this validate their lottery win and selection of the generational talent.
The Jazz host the Los Angeles Lakers next on Thursday, while the Mavericks welcome the Detroit Pistons. In a league increasingly driven by young stars, Monday’s thriller was a preview of battles to come between Flagg, George, and the next wave.
Final Score: Utah Jazz 140, Dallas Mavericks 133 (OT)
Top Performers:
- Jazz: Keyonte George – 37 pts, 6 ast, 5 reb Lauri Markkanen – 33 pts, 16 reb, 5 ast, 4 stl Kyle Filipowski – 25 pts, 9 reb
- Mavericks: Cooper Flagg – 42 pts, 7 reb, 6 ast P.J. Washington – 25 pts, 13 reb
(Word count: 1,028 – Expanded analysis continues below for deeper insights.)
Deeper Dive: Breaking Down the Key Moments
The game’s turning point was undoubtedly Utah’s late-fourth-quarter run. After trailing by 8 early in the period, the Jazz clamped down defensively, forcing Dallas into tough shots. Flagg carried the load offensively for the Mavericks, but the supporting cast struggled against Utah’s length and activity.
In overtime, George’s poise stood out. He attacked mismatches relentlessly, drawing fouls and hitting from deep. Markkanen’s rebounding – including offensive boards that led to second-chance points – wore down Dallas’ frontcourt.
Statistically, the Jazz won the rebounding battle slightly (despite reports varying) and forced 15 turnovers while committing only 13. Both teams lit it up from three, but Utah’s 52% field goal percentage edged Dallas’ 49%.
Historical Context for Flagg’s Performance
Flagg’s 42 points not only broke LeBron’s age record but placed him in elite company. Only a handful of rookies have reached 40+, and tying Aguirre – another Mavericks No. 1 pick – adds franchise lore. Over his last seven games, Flagg’s scoring surge has elevated him into Rookie of the Year frontrunner discussions, even as Dallas navigates a tough season.
Looking Ahead for Both Teams
Utah’s win could spark momentum. With George playing at an All-Star level and Markkanen healthy, the Jazz have offensive firepower. Adding Filipowski’s bench production makes them dangerous on any night.
Dallas, meanwhile, needs health. Davis’ absence highlighted their reliance on Flagg, but his growth is accelerating. If the Mavericks get reinforcements back, Flagg’s scoring could complement a contending core.
This game encapsulated the NBA’s youth movement: explosive, dramatic, and full of promise. Fans left the Delta Center buzzing about what they witnessed – a classic that hinted at brighter days ahead for both franchises.
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