The much-anticipated Las Vegas Summer League provided its first major spotlight moment over the weekend, pitting the top two selections from the recent NBA draft against each other. Cooper Flagg, the first overall pick now with the Dallas Mavericks, faced off against Dylan Harper, selected second by the San Antonio Spurs, in a game that offered an early glimpse into the potential rivalry between two of the sport`s brightest young talents.
For Cooper Flagg, this contest was a significant step up from his initial Summer League outing. After a self-admittedly subpar debut, the highly touted prospect demonstrated precisely why he earned the top spot. In 31 minutes on the court, Flagg exploded for 31 points, contributing nearly half of his team`s total points in their 76-69 loss to the Spurs. This scoring output marked the most points scored by a number one overall pick in the Las Vegas Summer League since John Wall achieved the feat in 2010. Flagg showcased improved efficiency, hitting 10 of 21 field goals, including his first three-pointers of Summer League play (3 of 9 from deep). Notably, he displayed increased aggression, driving to the basket and earning trips to the free-throw line, converting 8 of 13 attempts – a stark contrast to his single free throw attempt in his debut. His performance also included four rebounds, an assist, and a block, painting a picture of a player adjusting rapidly and eager to make an impact.
Across the court, Dylan Harper made his Summer League debut for the Spurs, having missed their opener due to injury. Despite limited minutes, playing just under 20, Harper delivered an impressive performance. The 6-foot-6 guard scored 16 points on efficient 5-for-12 shooting, complementing his scoring with six rebounds, two assists, two steals, and a block. He also proved effective at the free-throw line, making 6 of 7 shots. Harper played with notable control and poise, successfully attacking the rim in both half-court sets and transition. His debut offered a promising look at the skillset and composure that positioned him as the second overall pick.
While the game ended in a Spurs victory, the primary takeaway for many was the direct competition between Flagg and Harper. This initial meeting is widely expected to be the first chapter in a long and compelling rivalry between two players poised to influence the league for years to come. Both players acknowledged the competitive spirit of their draft class and this specific matchup, viewing it as an opportunity to showcase their abilities on a global stage.
Beyond the top two, this draft class is anticipated to be deep and impactful, featuring talents like VJ Edgecombe, Ace Bailey, and Kon Knueppel. In this particular game, Harper`s teammate Carter Bryant, the 14th overall pick, also impressed with his defensive contributions. However, the spotlight firmly remained on Flagg and Harper, whose first professional encounter lived up to the hype, offering fans an exciting preview of the battles yet to come.
Jasper Hawthorne