
Former Duke Star Cooper Flagg Draws ‘Questionable’ Comparison from Mark Cuban
LAS VEGAS, July 15, 2025 — Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and a former Duke standout, has ignited fresh buzz—not just for his Summer League debut, but for a bold comparison by Mavericks minority owner Mark Cuban. Cuban likened Flagg’s developmental trajectory to that of Kobe Bryant, drawing mixed reactions from fans and analysts.
Rookie Debut: Modest Numbers, Major Impressions
Flagg’s much-anticipated Summer League debut came Monday in Las Vegas, where the 18-year-old forward showcased his all-around skill set despite an off-night shooting (10 points on 5-for-21, 0-for-5 from deep). He compensated with six rebounds, four assists, three steals, a block, and solid playmaking—a strong counterpoint to his struggles from the field .
Flagg admitted afterward, “One of the worst games of my life,” yet the Mavericks emerged victorious, 87–85, carrying a promising blueprint for their No. 1 pick .
Cuban’s Comparison Sparks Debate
Courtside after the game, Cuban praised Flagg’s mental maturity and poise at just 18 years old, saying it’s reminiscent of how Kobe Bryant navigated the first two seasons of his career—unpolished yet on an upward development curve .
Cuban was candid: “You kind of have to think of the Kobe arc… It took him some time to get it right” . He underscored that while he isn’t directly comparing their games, both required patience in their early NBA years .
Some see the parallel as premature or questionable. Kobe emerged at 18 as a raw scorer—whereas Flagg, unlike Bryant, brings versatile strengths: elite defense, passing, and positional versatility . Others believe Cuban’s point is less about play style and more about managing rookie expectations.
A Measured Development Plan
The Mavericks seem intent on mirroring this developmental arc. Coach Jason Kidd has taken steps to use Flagg as a point forward in Summer League—handing him ball-handling duties commonly reserved for guards . Notably, Mark Cuban himself texted Kidd, urging, “Point guard, point guard, point guard, let him bring the ball up” . Kidd, a Hall of Fame point guard, appears to view this as a strategic way to fast-track Flagg’s playmaking and decision-making in real game action.
This “uncomfortable” role is designed to test Flagg’s versatility, encouraging him to develop turnover tolerance and on-court leadership—reminiscent of how Giannis Antetokounmpo was groomed under Kidd .
Veteran Support and a Supportive Environment
Cuban praised the Mavericks’ veteran-laden roster—featuring Anthony Davis, Klay Thompson, and eventually Kyrie Irving—as a cushion for Flagg’s growth. With such experienced teammates, he needn’t carry the team immediately, strengthening the Kobe-arc narrative of gradual emergence .
Flagg’s coach echoed sentiments that pressure-free professional settings with veteran support are ideal for development . Flagg’s trainer further likened his internal drive—the so-called “Mamba mentality”—to Kobe’s own relentless self-critique and discipline .
Final Take
Mark Cuban’s comparison to Kobe Bryant may be provocative, but it highlights a deliberate developmental roadmap. Dallas is setting low external pressure and relying on mentorship and gradual role growth. Whether Flagg reaches Kobe-like heights remains to be seen. What’s clear is that expectations are being managed intelligently—emphasizing long-term growth over immediate results.
If this “Kobe arc” approach unfolds well, Cooper Flagg may firmly establish himself as not just a prodigy, but a cornerstone in Dallas’s post-Doncic era
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