Cooper Flagg to Headline NBA Rising Stars for Mavericks

Cooper Flagg will headline the Rising Stars competition at NBA All-Star 2026 in Los Angeles after the league revealed the four-team draft pool. The single elimination event is Feb. 13 at the Intuit Dome, with three NBA teams coached by Carmelo Anthony, Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady and a G League squad led by Austin Rivers. Flagg, the 2025 No. 1 pick, is averaging 18.8 points, 6.4 rebounds and 4.1 assists and poured in 42 points against Utah while carrying the Mavericks with Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving sidelined. Merlin sees Flagg as a young star ready to own a short showcase. Thrown into a starring role early, his rim attack and playmaking make him perfect for a game that rewards boldness. Whichever Hall of Famer drafts him will start with a clear advantage and a highlight reel waiting to happen.