The torch has officially been passed to the next generation. In an announcement that surprised absolutely no one but excited everyone, the NBA revealed the player pool for the 2026 Castrol Rising Stars Game on Tuesday, and the marquee name is unmistakable: Cooper Flagg.
The Dallas Mavericks’ rookie phenom, who has been turning heads since his summer league debut, headlines a loaded roster of first and second-year players set to compete during All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles. For Mavericks fans, this is more than just an exhibition invitation; it is a coronation of Flagg as one of the league’s legitimate building blocks.
A Class of Their Own
While Flagg is the undisputed headliner, the sheer depth of talent joining him suggests the league is in safe hands. The 2026 Rising Stars pool features a “who’s who” of young talent that has defined the 2025-26 season. Joining Flagg are fellow high-profile rookies including the Brooklyn Nets’ dynamic guard Dylan Harper, the San Antonio Spurs’ defensive stalwart Stephon Castle, and the Orlando Magic’s high-flying V.J. Edgecombe.
The selection committee also tapped Charlotte Hornets sharpshooter Kon Knueppel, Philadelphia 76ers guard Jared McCain, and Houston Rockets playmaker Reed Sheppard. The sophomore class (second-year players) will also be well-represented, ensuring the tournament-style game remains highly competitive.
Flagg’s Impact in Dallas
For Cooper Flagg, this selection is the cherry on top of a rookie campaign that has arguably exceeded the massive hype that accompanied him from Duke. Since putting on the Mavericks uniform, Flagg has displayed a maturity well beyond his teenage years. His defensive versatility—often guarding the opposing team’s best wing—combined with an evolving offensive package has made him indispensable to Jason Kidd’s rotation.
“It’s an honor,” Flagg reportedly shared through team channels. “You grow up watching All-Star Weekend, seeing the guys who play in this game go on to become legends. To be mentioned in that same breath is special.”
The Rising Stars Format
The event, scheduled for Friday night at the brand-new Intuit Dome, will once again feature a four-team tournament format. The player pool consists of 11 NBA rookies, 10 NBA sophomores, and 7 NBA G League Ignite players. The coaching staffs for these teams are expected to be announced later this week, often featuring NBA legends who serve as honorary coaches.
This format has revitalized the Friday night slot, turning what used to be a glorified layup line into a genuinely competitive showcase. With competitors like Flagg and Castle—players known for their intense motor and refusal to lose—fans can expect plenty of fireworks.
What to Watch For
The subplot to watch will be the potential matchups. Will we see Flagg teamed up with his draft-class rival Dylan Harper, or will they be placed on opposing squads, giving fans a tease of a future rivalry? The chemistry between these young stars often dictates the flow of the game, and seeing Flagg operate in an environment of pure talent without the structural rigidity of a regular-season game will be a treat for scouts and fans alike.
The Bigger Picture
Ultimately, the 2026 Rising Stars Game is a celebration of the NBA’s rapid talent influx. But make no mistake: the spotlight is firmly on Cooper Flagg. As he steps onto the court in Los Angeles, he won’t just be representing the Mavericks; he’ll be representing the future face of the league.
