Cooper Flagg described his Rookie of the Year win as validation of years of work after the Dallas Mavericks forward secured the 2025-26 award.
“I think it means everything,” Flagg said. “This award and this recognition is something that all rookies come into the year fighting for.”
The 19-year-old led all rookies in scoring at 21.0 points per game while adding 6.7 rebounds and 4.5 assists across 70 starts.
“All the hard work, all the hours that I put in throughout the year, throughout the years previous, all the hours that I’ve put in my whole life, just to get this moment,” Flagg said. “It shows that it’s all worth it.”
Despite the individual honor, the top pick emphasized team impact and credited his supporting cast.
“I wouldn’t have been able to do it without them,” he said. “Thank you to my teammates… coaches, Coach Kidd, the rest of the staff.”
Dallas finished 26-56 and missed the postseason, but the rookie operated as a primary initiator, often handling point guard duties in head coach Jason Kidd’s system.
“I’m always ready for a challenge,” Flagg said. “Something that I’ve always prided myself on is just doing whatever it takes to win.”
He acknowledged the transition from college to an 82-game schedule required adjustment.
“It was a long season for sure,” Flagg said. “I wouldn’t really say there’s one play… but there’s a collection of different moments and different learning experiences.”
The forward admitted he did not fully meet his own expectations despite the award.
“No,” Flagg said when asked directly. “It’s always just been about living up to my own standard.”
That mindset showed in his development arc, particularly in decision-making and offensive reads.
“I think there’s a ton of growth that I can make offensively, off the dribble and making reads at a high level,” he said.
Flagg pointed to confidence as a key takeaway from his rookie campaign.
“There were moments throughout the year where I was at a low,” he said. “But having my support system… helped me with my confidence overall.”
The Maine native also highlighted the importance of his inner circle during difficult stretches.
“My family, my teammates lifting me up… it just helped me with my confidence,” Flagg said.
Looking ahead, he made it clear the focus is on progression rather than accolades.
“It’s time for us to just move forward, continue to grow, continue to get better,” he said. “We’re just going to put in the work all summer long.”
Flagg also reflected on the moment he learned about the award.
“I found out at 6 o’clock on TV,” he said. “I was sitting on my couch at home with my family… it was a cool moment.”
He added: “It was probably one of the first times that I’ve won an award and had to find out with everybody else.”
For Flagg, the message to his younger self remains simple.
“Just telling them it’s worth it,” he said. “All the work, all the hours, just enjoying the grind and the progression.”
