Building Chemistry Before the Season

As Cooper Flagg gears up for his rookie season with the Dallas Mavericks, he is turning to NBA 2K26 for invaluable insights into playing with his new team. Ronnie Singh, the digital director for NBA 2K, shared with Heavy Sports how the young player is leveraging the popular game to get a head start.

A Unique Training Tool

Flagg, the No. 1 overall draft pick, has been actively engaging with NBA 2K26 to understand how he will fit into the Mavericks' game plan, particularly as he works alongside stars like Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis. Singh noted, "I've been talking to Cooper Flagg a lot the last couple of weeks, and he's already trying to shape up how he's going to fit into that team by playing the NBA2K26 game with him, integrated with Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis."

With this approach, Flagg is able to simulate off-the-ball movements that will be essential for him on the court. Singh emphasized, "Our AI is so good. It really simulates the authentic experience of being on the court," making this not just a game but a valuable tool for preparation.

Advancing Game Mechanics

Moreover, the advancements in sports video games, like NBA 2K26, have transformed them into essential scouting resources. For instance, MLB star Lucas Giolito mentioned using MLB The Show to analyze opposing lineups as part of his preparation. Similarly, while NBA 2K26 offers minor gameplay enhancements rather than a complete overhaul, it includes crucial improvements like better off-ball movement for AI players and refined controls for Rhythm Shooting.

This means that the 2K version of the Mavericks will closely resemble the real-life squad that coach Jason Kidd will lead this season. Flagg has earned an impressive 82 overall rating in the game, making him the top rookie among his peers. Meanwhile, teammates Davis and Irving hold ratings of 93 and 90 respectively, placing them in the top 25 players in the game.

The Road Ahead

For Mavericks fans, NBA 2K26 may provide one of the few opportunities to see Irving in a Dallas uniform this season. As he continues to recover from a torn ACL, the timeline for his return remains uncertain. In the meantime, aspiring players like Flagg are taking full advantage of the game to prepare for what lies ahead.