Overview
- Following Wednesday’s Mavericks ceremony in Dallas, multiple outlets reported a 412–386 vote with a 56–44 first‑place split in one of the tightest Rookie of the Year races since 2002–03.
- Flagg averaged 21.0 points, 6.7 rebounds and 4.5 assists, became the youngest player with a 50-point game, and was the first rookie since Michael Jordan to lead his team in total points, rebounds, assists and steals.
- Jason Kidd praised Flagg’s poise and positional flexibility and said on Thursday he believes the 19-year-old will be a Hall of Famer, while Dirk Nowitzki lauded his season and leadership.
- Critics questioned the outcome as ESPN’s Richard Jefferson urged voters to weigh reaching the play-in more, and Draymond Green said Kon Knueppel was penalized for struggling in those extra games.
- Flagg said he learned of the award on TV at home and emphasized his yearlong mutual support with Knueppel, as the 100-member media panel delivered a result separated by just 26 points.