Cooper Flagg shows competitive side while addressing ROY race with friend Kon Knueppel

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The NBA confirmed on Monday that Dallas Mavericks guard Cooper Flagg has been named Rookie of the Year. The announcement followed a tightly contested race with Charlotte Hornets prospect Kon Knueppel.

Flagg secured 56 first-place votes, narrowly beating Knueppel, who received 44. The close margin reflected how consistent both players were throughout the season.

Speaking on NBA Showtime after the award was revealed, the Mavs prospect offered insight into how closely he followed the race, particularly when it came to his friend and rival.

Cooper Flagg concedes tracking Kon Knueppel closely in Rookie of the Year battle

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Flagg admitted he regularly kept tabs on Knueppel’s performances, either by watching games or checking box scores. The habit underlined the competitive edge that drove him throughout the season.

Monitoring Knueppel helped him understand the level required to stay ahead in the Rookie of the Year conversation.

At the same time, Flagg made it clear his interest was not purely competitive. His connection with Knueppel added another layer to how he followed his progress.

“For sure [I watched Knueppel’s displays]. I see the games every night and I can check the box scores, I see them on Instagram or whatever. But I think I was also watching Kon because that’s one of my brothers,” he said.