Dallas, Texas, January 30, 2026
In a thrilling game in Dallas, Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg made history by scoring 49 points, the most ever by a teenager in a single NBA game. Despite his remarkable performance, the Mavericks lost to the Charlotte Hornets 123-121 in a nail-biting finish. The game also featured Flagg’s former Duke teammate, Kon Knueppel, who contributed 34 points for the Hornets. Flagg’s achievement marks a promising future for the Mavericks as they honor the legacy of Mark Aguirre with a retired jersey at halftime.
Historic NBA Matchup Sees Rookie Cooper Flagg Shine
Dallas, Texas – In an extraordinary NBA encounter on January 29, 2026, Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg etched his name in the league’s record books, scoring 49 points—the most ever by a teenager in a single game. Despite Flagg’s impressive performance, the Mavericks fell short against the Charlotte Hornets, losing 123-121 in a nail-biting finish.
Flagg, who just turned 19 in December, broke the previous record of 45 points held by Cliff Robinson since 1980. His standout game wasn’t limited to scoring; Flagg also tallied 10 rebounds and provided three assists, reflecting his versatility and contribution to the team’s offense.
A Clash of Titans: Flagg vs. Knueppel
This thrilling game had an added layer of excitement as Flagg faced off against his former Duke teammate, Kon Knueppel, now with the Hornets. Knueppel also displayed a remarkable performance, scoring 34 points and sinking eight three-pointers, which established a rookie record for the Hornets.
Down to the Wire
With the game tied at 121 in the closing seconds, Knueppel intercepted a pass from Flagg and was fouled while attempting a layup. He confidently converted both free throws, putting the Hornets ahead by two points. Flagg had a last-second opportunity to tie the game, but his shot missed, ending the Mavericks’ hopes for a victory.
Honoring Mavericks Legend
The significance of this game extended beyond the court as the Mavericks honored former player Mark Aguirre by retiring his jersey during halftime. Notably, Aguirre’s rookie scoring record was broken by Flagg’s performance during the game, making it a historic night for the franchise.
A Bright Future Ahead
While the Mavericks faced disappointment in the final score, Flagg’s record-breaking performance signals a promising future for the team and its fans. His potential to lead the Mavericks into a new era of success is evident, and fans are eager to see how he will continue to develop as their games progress.
Key Takeaways
This thrilling matchup between the Mavericks and Hornets not only highlighted the emerging talent of Cooper Flagg but also showcased the collaborative spirit and competitiveness within the NBA. As the future of the league unfolds, Dallas fans can take pride in witnessing such extraordinary talent blossom right in their backyard.
Join the Excitement
As the Dallas Mavericks head into upcoming challenges, be sure to support local sports and stay informed about the dynamic stories emerging from the Dallas community. Every game brings opportunities for growth, innovation, and unexpected triumphs.
FAQ
What record did Cooper Flagg set in the game against the Charlotte Hornets?
Cooper Flagg set the NBA record for points by a teenager with 49 points in a single game.
How did the game between the Dallas Mavericks and the Charlotte Hornets conclude?
The game concluded with the Hornets winning 123-121 after Kon Knueppel made two free throws with 4.1 seconds left.
Who is Kon Knueppel, and what was his contribution to the game?
Kon Knueppel is a rookie for the Charlotte Hornets and former college teammate of Cooper Flagg. He scored 34 points, including eight three-pointers, and made the decisive free throws in the final seconds.
What significance did the game have for the Dallas Mavericks’ franchise?
The game was significant as the Mavericks honored former player Mark Aguirre by retiring his jersey at halftime, and Flagg broke Aguirre’s previous rookie scoring record during the game.
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Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
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