UPDATE: In a stunning showdown at the American Airlines Center on January 25, 2024, Cooper Flagg made history by scoring 49 points, the most ever by a teenager in NBA history. However, it was Kon Knueppel’s clutch performance that led the Charlotte Hornets to a thrilling 123-121 victory over the Dallas Mavericks, marking their fifth consecutive win.
This intense matchup featured the top Rookie of the Year frontrunners, and both players exceeded expectations. Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick, broke a rookie record he shared with Mark Aguirre, whose jersey number was retired during the game. Knueppel, the No. 4 pick, scored 34 points while executing pivotal plays in the game’s closing moments.
With just 7.6 seconds left on the clock, Knueppel forced a turnover from Flagg, then sank the game-winning free throws after drawing a foul. Flagg’s last-second jumper clanged off the rim, sealing the Hornets’ thrilling victory.
“Just a crazy ending to a phenomenal game,” Knueppel said postgame. “He was the best player on the floor tonight. It’s just fun competing against the best.”
Flagg and Knueppel entered the game with the best odds for Rookie of the Year, creating a buzz around this late-January matchup. Their combined total of 83 points marked the highest ever scored by two rookies in a single game since 1971.
“It’s incredible,” Flagg commented on the experience of competing against his college roommate. “We’ll be talking about this night for the rest of our lives.”
Knueppel’s performance was notable as he set a franchise rookie record with eight 3-pointers out of 12 attempts. Flagg, who now averages 19.5 points per game, showcased his scoring ability with an impressive 40 points by the third quarter, joining an elite group of teenagers who have recorded multiple 40-point games.
As the youngest player in the league at just 19 years old, Flagg acknowledged areas for improvement, particularly under pressure. “I’m always trying to get better,” he said. “I have seen a ton of double teams and stuff, so just figuring out how I can be effective in those moments.”
Flagg finished the game with a remarkable shooting performance, going 20-of-29 from the field and scoring 28 points in the paint, becoming the first rookie since Brandon Jennings in 2009 to achieve such a feat.
“He’s not about numbers. He’s about wins and losses,” remarked Mavericks coach Jason Kidd, praising Flagg’s character and competitive spirit.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on both players as they continue to battle for the Rookie of the Year title. Upcoming games will be crucial as the Hornets and Mavericks aim to improve their standings in the league. Fans and analysts alike will be eagerly watching how this rivalry unfolds in the weeks to come.
