‘He’s Got The Right Mindset’: Anthony Davis Reflects On Mentoring Cooper Flagg’s Early NBA Growth
Anthony Davis has seen plenty of elite young talents during his 13 NBA seasons. But mentoring Cooper Flagg, the Dallas Mavericks’ 18-year-old No. 1 overall pick, has brought a refreshing perspective for the veteran forward — one defined by humility, curiosity, and hunger.
Just three games into his NBA career, Flagg has already shown the maturity of a seasoned player. He’s averaging 16.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists, highlighted by a breakout 22-point, four-rebound, four-assist performance in Dallas’ 139–129 win over the Toronto Raptors on Sunday.
With that game, Flagg became the youngest starter in NBA history to record 20 points with zero turnovers and joined Dennis Smith Jr. and Sean Rooks as the only Mavericks rookies to begin their careers with three straight double-figure scoring games.
Anthony Davis Sees Rare Traits in Young Star
For Davis, who is averaging 24.7 points, 12.0 rebounds, and 2.7 assists himself this season, Flagg’s early consistency has reinforced his belief that the young forward’s mindset is built for longevity.
“I was in his position once,” Davis said. “The good thing is he embraces it. He’s Cooper Flagg — his name already holds weight in the basketball world. But he’s humble. A lot of guys come in feeling entitled, but he’s the opposite. He embraces rookie duties — nothing crazy, just fun stuff. And when he makes big plays, we’re right there cheering for him. He’s fun to be around, fun to have as a teammate.”
Davis’ mentorship has gone beyond encouragement. He’s been intentional about helping Flagg with the details — from defensive positioning and communication to reading floor spacing and managing tempo. The lessons, Davis said, are less about mechanics and more about approach.
“He asks a ton of questions,” Davis said. “Not just to me, but to all the guys. He wants to learn, wants to know where to be and what to do. He watches film, studies the game, and he’s only going to keep getting better.”
A Willing Learner
Flagg has embraced the challenge of adapting to NBA speed and physicality. He said the biggest adjustment hasn’t been about confidence, but patience — learning when to attack and when to trust the system.
“It came naturally, without forcing it,” Flagg said. “I just tried to make plays, get guys involved, and be aggressive whether it meant scoring or setting others up. Guys like AD have really helped me stay patient and let the game come to me.”
That patience was evident against Toronto. Flagg not only scored efficiently but also played turnover-free basketball, moving seamlessly within Dallas’ offensive flow. The highlight came in the third quarter when he took a bounce pass from D’Angelo Russell and threw down a one-handed dunk over Sandro Mamukelashvili — a play that brought the crowd to its feet and had Davis celebrating from midcourt.
“He’s got the right people around him,” Davis said. “He’s competitive, wants to win, and he listens. That’s all you can ask for from a young guy. He’s special.”
A Foundation for the Future
For Dallas, Flagg represents both the present and the future — a young cornerstone growing under the guidance of one of the game’s most respected veterans. Davis’ influence has helped smooth the rookie’s transition, while Flagg’s energy has reinvigorated the team’s chemistry.
“He’s only going to get better,” Davis said. “He’s got the right mindset, and that’s what will take him a long way in this league.”
With a five-game homestand underway and a demanding schedule ahead, the Mavericks are leaning on that mix of youth and experience. And in the dynamic between Davis and Flagg, they’ve found a model for how leadership and learning can coexist — one that’s already paying dividends.
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