Oct 26, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg (32) makes a three point shot against the Toronto Raptors during the second half at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Cooper Flagg turned in an efficient performance on Sunday, helping the Dallas Mavericks to their first win of the season while making a bit of history in the process.

Flagg produced 22 points, four rebounds, four assists and one blocked shot in a 139-129 victory over the Toronto Raptors. He went 8-of-14 from the field, including 2-of-6 from 3-point range, in 29 minutes at the American Airlines Center.

The No. 1 pick became the fifth-youngest player (18 years, 309 days) in history to record at least 20 points in a game, trailing only Jermaine O'Neal, Kobe Bryant, Tracy McGrady and LeBron James. He is one of seven players to accomplish that feat before turning 19.

"He is relentless," said D'Angelo Russell, who finished with 24 points. "He is non-stop. His motor is non-stop, offensively and defensively. But he is doing that on top of making shots and being a great basketball player. It is just a cherry on the top."

Flagg is averaging 16.7 points, 6.3 rebounds and 3.3 assists on 33.3% shooting from 3-point range through the first three games of the season. He is one of five first-year players to score at least 20 points in a game after his performance on Sunday.

The former Duke All-American recorded seven points alone in the third quarter as the Mavericks outscored the Raptors 39-25 to help seal the win. He is beginning to settle in on the court after an uneven debut last week, which he classified as "not good."

Mavericks coach Jason Kidd has thrust Flagg into the starting lineup as the point guard, thanks to his ability to handle the ball and make plays for others. The early returns have been encouraging, and the team is eager to see how Flagg can continue to develop on the court.

"I think his ability to understand the defense and who is guarding him and what he can get to," Kidd said. "Being able to shoot the 3 off the dribble and then also being able to get into the paint. His IQ is extremely high and understanding him off the dribble, getting downhill and his athleticism to be able to finish but also to playmake is really good for us. We are going to need that."

This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Mavericks' Cooper Flagg joins rare company after latest performance

Reporting by Cody Taylor, Rookie Wire / Rookie Wire

USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect