Cooper Flagg Ready for NBA Debut Against Spurs Rookie Dylan Harper
Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg says he’s eager to face Spurs rookie Dylan Harper in their shared NBA debut, emphasizing competition over rivalry: “It’s never personal, but he’s a great player.”
Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg prepares to face Spurs rookie Dylan Harper in their first NBA matchup. Courtesy of Dallas Mavericks YouTube Channel
Two of the league’s most anticipated rookies will be in the spotlight when the Dallas Mavericks play the San Antonio Spurs this Wednesday.
Cooper Flagg and Dylan Harper are getting ready to make their official NBA debuts by playing on the same court.
Flagg, the Mavericks’ highest draft pick and one of the most talked-about prospects in recent memory, is not hesitant. Flagg is solely focused on competing correctly, despite many considering the matchup to be a growing rivalry between the two rookies.
“I’m trying to take every matchup that I’m given — or anybody that I’m guarding in any given possession — personal or not personal,” Flagg tells LandonBuford.com after practice on Monday. “I just take it as a competitor, never trying to get scored on. We’re trying to just get a stop on whoever I’m guarding, so it’s never personal. But he’s a great player, and you know, it’ll be exciting to be able to play our debuts in the same game.”
Flagg’s approach to things is a reflection of the competitive edge that has made him a top NBA Draft pick, having started as a standout prep player. Flagg’s defensive intensity, court awareness, and relentless energy have already been praised by Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd, who has labeled him as “wired to compete” and “well beyond his years mentally.”
The Mavericks consider Flagg a key to their future – a player who can anchor their defense and become a versatile offensive threat, alongside Anthony Davis, and Kyrie Irving. Wednesday’s game against the Spurs will be his first true test against NBA-level talent in the bright light.
Dylan Harper, the Spurs’ own rookie sensation across the court, also has something to prove. The two players have known each other from the AAU circuit and pre-draft workouts, and both scouts and fans have closely followed their paths to the league. Not only are they potential franchise cornerstones, but they also have expectations as competitors who could shape the next chapter of the Mavericks-Spurs rivalry.
Flagg’s approach to the game is poised, but there’s an unspoken understanding that this debut is more than just a regular-season matchup. Two young stars are preparing for one of the most compelling duels in years to come, giving a glimpse into the NBA’s future.
“So much versatility,” PJ Washington said of Flagg. “He can do pretty much everything on offense. He has great size, can shoot well, and makes the right play. For an 18-year-old to do that is unheard of. He’s a special player.”
The anticipation for tipoff is palpable in both franchises. Flagg’s goal isn’t to make headlines, but rather to leave an impression.
On Wednesday night, the lights will come on in Dallas. The start of a new era in the NBA’s Texas basketball landscape, one built on youth, talent, and relentless competition, will be witnessed by fans.
Landon Buford is an accomplished sports and entertainment journalist based in Richardson, Texas, with over a decade of experience covering the NBA, WNBA, NFL, WWE, MLB, and the entertainment industry. Known for delivering high-impact stories and headline-making interviews, Buford has earned a global audience through content that blends insider access with compelling storytelling.
He previously served as director of editorial and brand communications at PlayersTV, where he helped shape the platform’s editorial voice and brand identity. He is also the founder and editor-in-chief of LandonBuford.com—an independent outlet with more than 1.6 million views and syndication from major platforms including Bleacher Report, Sports Illustrated and Yahoo Sports. Buford’s interviews with stars like Gary Payton, Kevin Durant, Mark Cuban and Chris Paul showcase his talent for meaningful, in-depth conversations.
His bylines have appeared in Sports Illustrated, Forbes, Heavy.com, Meta’s Bulletin and One37pm, where he has contributed exclusive interviews, breaking news and cultural insights. At Heavy.com, his work drew more than a million views in just eight months, and at One37pm, it contributed to record-breaking traffic numbers.
His work highlights the intersection of sports, fashion, music, and entrepreneurship—showcasing how athletes and entertainers use their platforms to inspire change, influence trends, and shape culture beyond the game. Landon has interviewed a wide range of figures from the NBA, NFL, and entertainment industries, consistently bringing authentic voices and untold stories to the forefront.
In addition to his journalism, Buford is an entrepreneur and content creator, dedicated to amplifying diverse narratives and driving meaningful conversations across media platforms. His passion for storytelling, culture, and innovation continues to make him a respected voice in the evolving landscape of sports and entertainment media.
