Date: February 6, 2026 Category: Dallas Mavericks, NBA News, Podcasts Tags: #KlayThompson #CooperFlagg #Mavs #DudePerfect #NBA #AlmostAthletes
The passing of the torch in the NBA is rarely this seamless—or this heartwarming.
Fresh off Cooper Flagg’s historic 49-point performance, Dallas Mavericks veteran Klay Thompson made an appearance on the “Almost Athletes with Dude Perfect” podcast this week, delivering what might be the ultimate endorsement for the 19-year-old phenom. In an episode that dropped on Wednesday, the four-time NBA champion opened up about his new chapter in Dallas and revealed that his relationship with Flagg has become one of the most rewarding experiences of his legendary career.
“I’ll Be Watching Every Step”
Sitting down with the Dude Perfect crew for Episode 21, Thompson was his usual laid-back self, discussing everything from his top 5 shooters to his ideal fishing trip. But the tone shifted when the conversation turned to his rookie teammate.
“Being ‘Coop’s vet’ has been one of the highlights of my career,” Thompson said, reflecting on the mentorship role he has embraced since joining the Mavericks.
For a player who defined a dynasty alongside Steph Curry, that is no small statement. Klay went a step further, promising that his support won’t end when he eventually retires. “Even when I’m done, I’ll be watching his journey every step of the way,” he added, cementing a bond that goes far beyond the typical veteran-rookie dynamic.
The 49-Point Context
Klay’s praise comes at the perfect moment. Just last week, Flagg set the NBA world on fire by dropping 49 points against the Charlotte Hornets, shattering the record for the most points scored by a teenager in NBA history (previously held by Cliff Robinson since 1980).
While the Mavericks ultimately lost that game 123-121, Flagg’s dominance was undeniable. He shot 20-of-29 from the field and added 10 rebounds, proving that he isn’t just the future of the franchise—he is the present.
Klay, who scored 16 points in that same game, was the first to hype up his young teammate, noting that he sees a “special” kind of greatness in Flagg’s approach to the game.
A New Splash Brother?
The chemistry between the two has been evident all season, from post-practice shooting drills to their on-court connection. Listeners of the podcast got a glimpse into this dynamic, with Klay comparing Flagg’s competitive fire to some of the greats he has played with.
In a season where the Mavericks (19-30) have struggled to find wins, the mentorship between the future Hall of Famer and the rising superstar has been the stabilizing force. As Flagg continues to rewrite the rookie record books, having a mentor who has seen it all—and won it all—might be his biggest advantage.
