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Source: Fox News
Summary
Dallas Mavericks first overall pick Cooper Flagg was named 2025-26 NBA Rookie of the Year, beating Charlotte Hornets’ Kon Knueppel in a close vote. Flagg earned 412 total vote points to Knueppel’s 386. Flagg averaged 21 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game, leading all rookies in scoring. Knueppel set the rookie 3-pointers made record with 273.
Our Reading
The game followed a familiar script.
Cooper Flagg, the rookie sensation, gets the nod over Kon Knueppel, the sharpshooter with the record-breaking 3-pointers. Flagg’s stats were impressive, but Knueppel’s struggles in the Play-In Tournament sealed his fate.
This one felt recognizable early, as Flagg’s consistent scoring and rebounding made him a clear contender for the award.
The result wasn’t surprising by the end, given Flagg’s dominance throughout the season.
This one was never in doubt after Flagg’s 35-point performance in March.
Original Observation: Flagg’s rookie season was always going to be about expected dominance, not adjusting to the NBA pace.
Author: Evan Null
