Mavericks player Cooper Flagg eyeing NBA Slam Dunk Contest opportunity – Basketball Insider
Rising star talks dunk contest interest
Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg recently shared his excitement about potentially participating in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest during All-Star Weekend. After a breakout rookie season, Flagg says he’ll “Absolutely“Please be interested if invited.” He described the tournament as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” that he would “love to play” if fans and the league chose him.
Flagg’s candid comments show his confidence and competitive edge. While he’s focused on helping the Mavericks win games first, the idea of showcasing his athleticism in conference play clearly appeals to him.
Sportsmanship meets opportunity
Since entering the NBA, Flagg has impressed fans and scouts with his athleticism and vertical leap. He often finishes at the rim during games, and his combination of length, body control and timing make him a natural dunker. His presence on the Mavericks roster adds energy and excitement, giving Dallas a versatile forward with high-profile potential.
Even before this season, people around the league mentioned Flagg as a potential candidate for the dunk contest. Now that he’s playing significant minutes and displaying elite speed and explosiveness, his name is even more prominent in the conversations of fans and analysts alike.
When asked if Cooper Flagg would consider participating in next month’s NBA All-Star Weekend Slam Dunk Contest:
“Look, I don’t know if I can really compete. I’m more of a dunk-on-the-game kind of guy, so never say never, but I don’t know if I can really compete.”
Someone jokingly asked him about… pic.twitter.com/fk3b8Cgu6J
— Mike Curtis (@MikeACurtis2) January 8, 2026
Flagg’s response to fans
Flagg responded to the growing fan support with humility and calm. He said he was grateful for the love and didn’t take it for granted. “I saw all the talk,” he said. “That’s love. I’m grateful. If they want to see me in the dunk contest, I’m going to be there and perform.”
His statement underscored his willingness to meet expectations if he was noticed. Flagg didn’t commit to attending — he acknowledged the league would have to extend an invitation first — but he had no doubt he would jump at the opportunity.
Why the dunk contest is important
The NBA Slam Dunk Contest remains one of the most famous All-Star Weekend events. It provides sports stars, especially young athletes, with a platform to showcase their creativity and explosiveness in front of a national audience. Over the years, the game has elevated the profile of players from Vince Carter to Zach LaVine who have shone in high-level displays.
As All-Star Weekend draws more and more viewers each year, the Slam Dunk Contest continues to highlight the most dynamic athletes in the league. Flagg’s name is now in the conversation, and his performance during the regular season gave fans reason to pay attention.
What’s next for Flagg?
For now, Flagg’s focus remains on the Mavericks’ regular season and playoffs. Dallas valued his two-way impact, with coach Jason Kidd strategically inserting him into key rotation pieces. If Flagg gets an invitation to the dunk contest, it could reflect excitement among fans and the league’s recognition of his unique talent.
As the All-Star Game approaches, attention will turn to performance metrics and narrative momentum. If Dallas continues Flagg’s athletic explosion and scoring growth, his name will only rise higher in the dunk contest conversation. Regardless, his transparency and excitement have energized fans and added an extra layer of intrigue to this mid-season showcase.
