‘Keep Working’: Dirk Nowitzki Shares Advice For Cooper Flagg Amid Dallas Mavericks’ Early Struggles

Grant AfsethNovember 8, 2025November 8, 2025no comment

Photo by Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for Prime Video

Dirk Nowitzki has seen his share of ups and downs with the Dallas Mavericks — from rebuilding years to championship contention. But even he admits few stretches have been as turbulent as the team’s current 2–7 start.

As Dallas searches for consistency through injuries, lineup changes, and offensive woes, one bright spot has been 18-year-old forward Cooper Flagg. The No. 1 overall pick has averaged 14.1 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 2.7 assists through nine games, shooting 40.4% from the floor, 28.6% from three, and 96.2% from the free-throw line.

Dirk Nowitzki on the Dallas Mavericks’ Rough Start

Nowitzki didn’t hold back when discussing Dallas’ early-season collapse, pointing to roster holes and stagnant offense as key issues.

“I feel bad for my Mavs fans,” Nowitzki said. “This has been a disastrous start. There’s a hole at the point guard and playmaking positions. We knew that hole wasn’t filled this summer, so there’s a gap in shot creation and shot making.”

The Mavericks’ offense has struggled to find rhythm, ranking near the bottom of the league in scoring and efficiency.

“They’re actually on pace to have a record-bad start offensively,” Nowitzki said. “They can’t shoot, they can’t make plays. It’s all side-to-side, east-and-west handoffs. Nobody can make shots. It’s been tough to watch.”

Despite the challenges, Nowitzki said the key is staying grounded and working through the rough patches — advice he extended directly to Flagg.

“Cooper, I would just keep working,” Nowitzki said. “I know you have a tremendous work ethic, so you’ll work your way through it. Come in the next day, be the first one in the gym, get shots up, get with an assistant coach, watch film, and just get better.”

Cooper Flagg’s Approach to Adversity

Flagg scored 12 points and grabbed six rebounds in Friday’s 118–104 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies — two nights after nearly forcing overtime against the New Orleans Pelicans when his runner at the buzzer rimmed out.

“I think we got to a good spot — something I was able to get to throughout the second half,” Flagg said after the Pelicans game. “I got to a good area, put one up on the rim, but it just didn’t fall.”

That performance marked his first game at his natural small forward position, with D’Angelo Russell shifting to point guard. The change helped spacing, though Flagg noted that execution and organization remain priorities.

“I thought we played naturally,” Flagg said. “It got a little sticky at times, but we’ve got to keep working on moving the ball, getting organized, and attacking mismatches. When we’re in our spacing and we’re running what we practice, we get good looks.”

Nowitzki emphasized that maintaining focus through these stretches is part of becoming a professional.

“Whether you’re winning or losing, keep a positive attitude,” Nowitzki said. “Show up every day ready to improve. You’ve already had a chance to take a game-tying shot at the end — that’s great experience. Keep working, keep your head up, and things will be okay.”

Flagg echoed the same mindset, saying the team is intent on staying together through adversity.

“Nobody’s happy,” he said. “For me, it’s the most I’ve lost, ever. It’s different. Nobody’s happy, but guys are trying to stay level-headed. It’s early, but it’s not fun losing. We want to make a change and start moving in the right direction.”

Even in defeat, Flagg has made an impression on Dallas fans with his maturity and accessibility.

“I’m 18 — not far removed from being one of those kids,” he said. “Win or lose, it’s important to give back to the people supporting you. I know what it’s like to be that kid in the stands wanting a photo or autograph, and it can mean a lot just to stop and say hello.”

For Nowitzki, that combination of humility and persistence embodies what Mavericks basketball has always represented.

“You just keep showing up,” he said. “That’s what Mavs basketball always used to mean.”

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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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‘Keep Working’: Dirk Nowitzki Shares Advice For Cooper Flagg Amid Dallas Mavericks’ Early Struggles