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HomeDallas Mavericks‘Coop’s Got All The Tools’: Klay Thompson Praises Cooper Flagg’s Work Ethic In Dallas Mavericks’ First Practice
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‘Coop’s Got All The Tools’: Klay Thompson Praises Cooper Flagg’s Work Ethic In Dallas Mavericks’ First Practice

Grant AfsethGrant Afsethno comment
Klay Thompson, Dallas Mavericks, NBA
Photo by Rashad Miller/DallasHoopsJournal.com

Klay Thompson wasted no time offering high praise for rookie forward Cooper Flagg after the Dallas Mavericks’ opening day of training camp. The five-time All-Star said Flagg’s approach to his first professional practice showed maturity beyond his years.

“Cooper did great,” Thompson said. “I’m most impressed he didn’t sit out one drill. I don’t care how many shots he misses or mistakes he makes. The fact that he’s in there and competing every single drill—that’s what impresses me.”

Klay Thompson’s Renewed Energy

Thompson, entering his second season in Dallas, said he felt refreshed after a long offseason and motivated to help the Mavericks establish their culture as a team built on effort and resiliency.

“I had a long, refreshing offseason, so I channeled that energy into the first practice,” Thompson said. “It felt great to see our team nearly complete and competing. It was so much fun.”

He added that setting the tone early is critical, particularly when it comes to embracing adversity and playing through fatigue.

“Learn about the team. Get a feel, compete, and set the foundation for what’s to come,” Thompson said. “We’re trying to set a standard for the culture here—that we’re going to push through adversity, play when we’re tired, and be relentless in chasing our goals.”

Defensive Potential With Anthony Davis

Thompson also pointed to the Mavericks’ defensive upside, anchored by Anthony Davis in the paint. He said having one of the league’s best shot blockers behind them allows guards and wings to play more aggressively on the perimeter.

“Absolutely, especially defensively,” Thompson said. “It’s going to feel great to know you’ve got the luxury of the best shot blockers in the league behind you. That gives you confidence to press into the offensive player, to gamble in passing lanes. There’s no reason we can’t be the highest-rated defensive team in the NBA.”

Cooper Flagg’s First Impression

For Klay Thompson, Cooper Flagg’s eagerness to work stood out most. The 18-year-old No. 1 overall pick didn’t shy away from drills or the physicality of his first practice, something Thompson said is rare for young players.

“Coop’s got all the tools,” Thompson said. “But when you’re willing to show up, listen, and go full speed in everything you do, that’s when greatness happens.”

The Mavericks will continue their training camp in Vancouver this week before returning to Dallas for preseason play.

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Tags :Anthony DavisCooper FlaggDallas MavericksJason KiddKlay ThompsonNBANBA News

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Grant Afseth

Grant Afseth

Senior Writer
Grant Afseth is a Senior Writer for DallasHoopsJournal.com, where he leads in-depth coverage of the Mavericks, Wings, and more. Between a focus on the latest news, closer looks at games, front office strategy, and more, Afseth provides objective coverage. Afseth contributes broader NBA coverage across platforms and has been cited in national outlets for his reporting and analysis. With nearly a decade of journalism experience, Afseth has covered the NBA and WNBA for multiple major outlets, including Athlon Sports, BallIsLife, Sportskeeda, and RG.org. He previously reported on the Indiana Pacers for CNHI’s Kokomo Tribune and the Mavericks for FanNation.
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