LAS VEGAS – NBA fans got a preview of the league’s future stars on Saturday when Cooper Flagg, Dylan Harper, and Carter Bryant—three of the top picks from the 2025 NBA Draft—squared off in a thrilling Summer League matchup between the Dallas Mavericks and San Antonio Spurs.
While the Mavericks lost 76-69, Flagg’s standout 31-point performance lit up the night and showed why he was the No. 1 overall pick.
Flagg Shines in Bounce-Back Performance
After a rough showing against the Lakers, Cooper Flagg came back strong, scoring a game-high 31 points while making an impact on both ends of the floor. Though he only recorded one assist, he played smarter, took better shots, and never seemed to force anything.
Mavericks Summer League coach Josh Broghamer praised Flagg for his decision-making, especially when used off the ball and as a roller in the offense.
One of the game’s most exciting moments came late in the third quarter, when Flagg drove into the paint for a powerful dunk and followed it up with a block on a last-second three-pointer.
Even with defenders hounding him, Flagg shot much more efficiently and looked comfortable throughout the game. His all-around presence is already making a difference—even if the Mavericks didn’t come away with the win.
Carter Bryant Makes Defensive Mark
Flagg’s main challenge came from Spurs rookie Carter Bryant, selected 14th overall. Though Bryant struggled offensively, missing all seven of his shots, his defense was top-tier. He stayed glued to Flagg for most of the game and also switched onto smaller guards when needed.
Bryant, who had four fouls in 27 minutes, showed flashes of elite defensive ability—the same skill that helped make him a lottery pick. While his shooting slump continued, Bryant wasn’t bothered, saying he believes in his shot and focuses on helping his team in other ways.
His confidence and versatility suggest that once his shooting stabilizes, he could become one of the league’s top two-way forwards.
Dylan Harper Impresses in Debut
Dylan Harper, the No. 2 pick in the 2025 Draft, made his Summer League debut after missing San Antonio’s first four games with a groin injury. In just under 20 minutes, Harper filled the stat sheet: 16 points, six rebounds, two assists, two steals, and one block.
He played both on and off the ball, showing the Spurs that he can contribute in multiple roles—a useful trait on a team with playmakers like De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle. What stood out most was his defensive effort and IQ, which Harper himself said is a key area he wants to improve.
Carter Bryant even joked about Harper’s block, saying, “he looked like me a little bit,” highlighting the growing chemistry between the Spurs’ two top rookies.
Spurs’ Defensive Trio Looks Scary
The future is bright for San Antonio. With Harper and Bryant on the perimeter and Victor Wembanyama protecting the paint, the Spurs are building a potentially elite defensive core.
As these three grow together, especially in high-stakes games like the playoffs, scoring on this team might become one of the toughest tasks in the NBA.
A Rivalry in the Making
The best part for fans? The Mavericks and Spurs, both in the Southwest Division, will face off at least four times a season. With Cooper Flagg leading Dallas and Harper-Bryant-Wembanyama powering San Antonio, this could become one of the NBA’s most exciting rivalries over the next few years.
Both teams feature young talent and rising stars, and Saturday’s game was just the beginning.
Cooper Flagg’s 31-point explosion showed why he’s the No. 1 pick, while Dylan Harper’s well-rounded debut proved he’s ready to contribute in multiple roles.
Carter Bryant’s defensive skills kept Flagg in check early and gave Spurs fans another reason to believe in their future. As this trio continues to grow, expect fireworks every time the Mavericks and Spurs share the court.
