Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg was named the 2025-26 Kia NBA Rookie of the Year on Monday, April 27, 2026, capping a historic debut season that saw him...
1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, received 56 of 100 first-place votes, totaling 412 points in the balloting.
Philadelphia 76ers guard VJ Edgecombe rounded out the voting in third place with 96 total points and one second-place vote.
Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg was named the 2025-26 Kia NBA Rookie of the Year on Monday, April 27, 2026, capping a historic debut season that saw him narrowly edge out former Duke teammate Kon Knueppel in one of the closest voting races in recent memory.
Flagg Secures Rookie of the Year in Tight Vote
Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, received 56 of 100 first-place votes, totaling 412 points in the balloting. Knueppel, selected fourth overall by the Charlotte Hornets, finished with 44 first-place votes and 386 total points. The 26-point margin between the top two finishers is the second-smallest in the award’s history under the current voting format, which began in the 2002-03 season, trailing only the 15-point gap between Scottie Barnes and Evan Mobley in 2021-22.
From Instagram — related to Rookie of the Year, Tight Vote Flagg
Philadelphia 76ers guard VJ Edgecombe rounded out the voting in third place with 96 total points and one second-place vote.
A Historic Rookie Campaign
Flagg’s season was marked by versatility and record-breaking performances. He became the first rookie since Michael Jordan to lead his team in total points (1,473), rebounds (466), assists (316), and steals (84) since steals were first officially recorded in the 1973-74 season. His 21.0 points per game led all rookies, while he also contributed 6.7 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 1.2 steals, and 0.9 blocks per game.
Rookie of the Year Historic Campaign Flagg Michael
One of the standout moments of Flagg’s season came on April 3, 2026, when he scored 51 points in a game against the Orlando Magic, setting a new NBA record for the most points scored by a teenager in league history. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor—including a 46.8% shooting percentage from the field—solidified his case as the top rookie in the league.
Flagg also made history as the second-youngest player to win the Rookie of the Year award, trailing only LeBron James, who won it in 2003-04 at 19 years and 106 days old. Flagg was 19 years and 112 days old as of the final day of the regular season on April 12, 2026.
Knueppel’s Breakout Season
While Flagg took home the hardware, Knueppel’s rookie campaign was equally impressive. The Hornets guard averaged 18.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game while shooting 47.5% from the field and 42.5% from three-point range. His 273 made three-pointers led the entire NBA, showcasing his efficiency and impact as a scorer.
Cooper Flagg wins NBA Rookie of the Year 🚨 I Former Duke teammate Kon Knueppel comes in second
Knueppel’s contributions were instrumental in the Hornets’ turnaround, helping the team improve from a 19-63 record in 2024-25 to 44-38 in 2025-26. His ability to stretch the floor and create offense made him a key piece of Charlotte’s rebuilding efforts.
Flagg’s Reaction and Mavericks’ Future
“Here’s a truly great honor. I’m grateful to receive this award and thankful to everyone in the Dallas Mavericks organization who believed in me from day one. None of this happens without my teammates, coaches, and the people around me pushing me every day. I came here to compete and help this team win. This is just one step forward in what we’re building.”
Rookie of the Year Dallas Mavericks Duke
Cooper Flagg
Flagg’s rise to stardom has been a cornerstone of the Mavericks’ long-term vision. After being drafted first he quickly adapted to the NBA game, initially playing point guard before transitioning to forward following the trade of Anthony Davis. His ability to play multiple positions and impact the game in various ways has drawn comparisons to some of the league’s most versatile stars.
With Flagg now officially recognized as the league’s top rookie, the Mavericks are poised to build around him as they continue their push for contention in the Western Conference. His partnership with established stars like Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving gives Dallas a dynamic core capable of competing at the highest level.
A Race to Remember
The 2025-26 Rookie of the Year race will be remembered as one of the most competitive in recent history. Flagg and Knueppel, who were teammates and roommates at Duke, became the first players from the same college team to finish first and second in the voting. Their friendship and shared journey from college to the NBA added a compelling narrative to the award’s outcome.
While Flagg ultimately prevailed, Knueppel’s season was a testament to his skill and potential. As the NBA looks ahead to the playoffs and the offseason, both rookies have positioned themselves as foundational pieces for their respective franchises.
For Flagg, the Rookie of the Year award is just the beginning. With his talent, work ethic, and the support of the Mavericks organization, he is poised to become one of the faces of the league in the years to come.
