Dallas Mavericks stunned as Cooper Flagg’s record night overshadowed by Jazz’s thrilling overtime victory
The Dallas Mavericks entered Monday night’s matchup against the Utah Jazz riding high, with five wins in their last six games. However, they faced a significant challenge without the presence of star forward Anthony Davis, who missed yet another game due to a calf contusion—the same injury that had sidelined him for 14 previous games. With Davis out, the spotlight shifted to rookie sensation Cooper Flagg, and he delivered in a big way.
Flagg’s Scintillating Start
Flagg exploded for 24 points in the first half, marking the second consecutive game in which he scored 20 or more before halftime. His aggressive style of play opened up opportunities for his teammates, which proved crucial in a game that featured little defensive effort from either side. By halftime, the Mavericks were shooting an impressive 66% from the floor, while the Jazz weren’t far behind at 55%. However, Utah’s seven three-pointers compared to Dallas’ four helped keep the game competitive, with both teams surpassing 70 points.
Keyonte George shone brightly for the Jazz, matching Flagg’s energy with 24 points of his own in the first half, setting the stage for a thrilling contest.
Shifting Momentum
As the third quarter unfolded, the Mavericks appeared poised to seize control. P.J. Washington contributed significantly, scoring 11 points and showcasing a series of breakaway dunks that pushed Dallas to a 10-point lead. Yet, the Jazz weren’t ready to fold. They chipped away at the Mavericks’ advantage in the fourth quarter, even with Klay Thompson hitting some tough three-pointers to keep the game within reach.
With the score tied at 109, the Mavericks ignited a brief 7-1 run to regain the lead. They extended their advantage to eight points, but the Jazz retaliated with a 6-0 run, tightening the contest as they put pressure on Flagg during critical possessions.
A Nail-Biting Finish
With the game hanging in the balance, Kyle Filipowski made a pivotal layup while drawing a foul, converting the subsequent free throw to give the Jazz a 125-124 lead—their first since the second quarter. A frantic sequence ensued, culminating in a layup for the Jazz that extended their run to 11-0. Flagg managed a tough left-handed layup while being fouled in the final moments, but his attempt at a tying free throw slipped away.
Lauri Markkanen then delivered a significant fadeaway jumper from the deep corner over two Mavericks defenders, pushing the Jazz lead back to three points. Flagg was fouled once more, making his first free throw intentionally but missing the second. Max Christie swooped in for the rebound and was fouled, converting both attempts to tie the game once again.
As regulation drew to a close, Filipowski’s three-point attempt missed, sending the game into overtime tied at 129.
Overtime Drama
Overtime began with the Jazz scoring the first five points while the Mavericks struggled to find their rhythm, missing their initial five shots. Flagg was eventually fouled and sent to the line, where he made both free throws. However, Markkanen’s putback maintained the Jazz’s five-point lead. Another offensive rebound from Markkanen extended the lead to seven, but Washington responded with a dunk that brought the Mavericks back within five.
Filipowski then rolled in a tough mid-range jumper, pushing the lead back to seven with just 31 seconds remaining, effectively sealing the game for the Jazz, who triumphed 140-133.
Record-Breaking Night for Flagg
Despite the loss, Cooper Flagg’s remarkable performance could not be overlooked. He finished the night with 42 points, tying the franchise record for points in a game by a rookie. Washington contributed a double-double with 25 points and 13 rebounds, while Ryan Nembhard added 14 points and 11 assists. The Jazz countered with a formidable trio of their own—Keyonte George leading the charge with 37 points, Markkanen adding 33 points and 16 rebounds, and Filipowski chipping in with 25 points.
In the aftermath of the Mavericks’ loss, discussions will undoubtedly arise regarding Flagg’s development and the team’s need to capitalize on his burgeoning talent. This night may have been a setback for Dallas, but the future remains bright for their rookie star.
