Cooper Flagg to Headline NBA Rising Stars at All-Star 2026

Cooper Flagg Headed to NBA All-Star 2026

In what promises to be an exciting showcase of young talent, Cooper Flagg, the rising star of the Dallas Mavericks, has been announced as a key participant in the 2026 NBA Rising Stars competition. This year’s event, set to take place on February 13 at the newly constructed Intuit Dome, home of the LA Clippers, will spotlight a new generation of NBA talent amidst the glitz and glamour of All-Star Weekend.

The Rising Stars Competition Format

This season, the Rising Stars competition will feature a four-team format, pitting young NBA players against each other in a single elimination tournament. The full draft pool for this much-anticipated showdown was revealed on Monday, with Flagg and several other rookie sensations, including Kon Knueppel and VJ Edgecombe, set to participate.

The competition will consist of three games, starting on Friday night, with 21 first- or second-year NBA players divided into three teams of seven. The fourth team will comprise seven players from the NBA G League, providing an exciting mix of seasoned and new talent. The actual drafting of the teams is scheduled for Tuesday at 7 p.m ET, with coverage available on Peacock, allowing fans to witness how each Hall of Famer navigates the intricate process of assembling their squads.

Coaching Legends at the Helm

The coaching lineup for this year’s competition promises to be as thrilling as the players themselves. Hall of Famers Carmelo Anthony, Vince Carter, and Tracy McGrady will take charge of the NBA teams, while former NBA player Austin Rivers will coach the G League squad. The presence of these legends adds an extra layer of excitement and intrigue, as they share their knowledge and mentor these young athletes throughout the competition.

Flagg's Stellar Rookie Season

Cooper Flagg, the 2025 NBA draft’s No. 1 overall pick, has consistently demonstrated why he was selected first, averaging 18.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. His shooting efficiency has also been commendable, with a field goal percentage of 47.3% and a three-point shooting percentage of 28% this season. These impressive statistics solidify his position as a franchise cornerstone for the Mavericks, especially as he has showcased his sky-high potential week in and week out.

In one standout performance, Flagg scored a staggering 42 points against the Utah Jazz, exemplifying his ability to rise to the occasion. His rookie year has been eventful, primarily due to the heavy burden placed on him as a key player, especially with teammates Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving sidelined due to injuries. This unexpected thrust into the spotlight has challenged him but also provided a platform for his growth as a player.

Challenges and Opportunity

When the Mavericks drafted Flagg, many anticipated a more gradual introduction to the NBA, allowing him to learn from the veteran presence within the team. However, circumstances have led to a situation where Flagg must adapt quickly, stepping into a role that demands he be not just a player, but also a leader on the court. As the focal point of the Mavericks’ offense, he’s risen to the occasion, demonstrating the versatility to either attack the basket or facilitate play as a ball-handling point forward.

This ability to navigate the pressures of being a centerpiece in a competitive league is indicative of his development and poise as a young athlete. His performance in the Rising Stars competition will further showcase his talents and could pave the way for a bright future within the league.

Conclusion: The Future is Bright

With all eyes on Cooper Flagg during the NBA All-Star Rising Stars event, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how he performs against his peers in a competitive setting. The blend of talent, coaching mentorship, and the excitement of a new format has raised expectations for this year’s event. As Flagg prepares to take the court, he carries not just his aspirations but also the high hopes of Dallas Mavericks fans, all eager to see if he can be their franchise player for years to come.