Flagg Sets NBA Record With 35 Points in Explosive Pro Debut
BOSTON, United States (WHN) – Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, set a league record with 35 points in his professional debut Tuesday, powering the Boston Celtics to a 125-118 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers at TD Garden.
The performance was historic. Flagg’s point total is the highest ever recorded by a teenager in an NBA debut, according to a statement released by the league office shortly after the game. The previous record of 33 points was held by LeBron James, set in 2003.
Flagg was aggressive from the opening tip. He scored 15 of his 35 points in the first quarter.
The record-breaking point came late in the game. With 2:15 remaining in the fourth quarter, Flagg hit a pull-up jumper to give the Boston Celtics a 119-110 lead. The shot prompted a standing ovation from the 19,156 in attendance.
Flagg’s final stat line was comprehensive. He finished with 35 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 blocks, the official NBA game summary confirmed. The rookie shot 12-for-19 from the field and 5-for-8 from three-point range.
Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla praised the rookie’s poise in a post-game press conference. “We knew he was special, but this is a different level,” Mazzulla stated. He added that Flagg’s composure is “that of a 10-year veteran.”
The matchup pitted the highly anticipated rookie against LeBron James, the very player whose record he broke. James, who guarded Flagg on several possessions, offered his own assessment of the debut performance.
“The kid is for real,” James said, per a transcript released by the Lakers. “He didn’t back down. He has all the tools. The league is in good hands.”
“I just wanted to come out and help the team win. My teammates found me in good spots. It feels amazing, but it’s just one game.”
– Cooper Flagg, Boston Celtics
Flagg, speaking to media after the win, called the experience “surreal” but immediately shifted focus back to the team. His teammates were instrumental, he said.
The Boston Celtics entered the season with high expectations following their selection of Flagg in the draft. This initial contest against a conference rival was seen as a major early test for the new-look roster.
Team officials have not yet issued a statement on whether Flagg’s role will expand immediately following the record-setting night.
The Boston Celtics’ next game is scheduled for Friday against the New York Knicks.
