Ticket prices skyrocket as Cooper Flagg makes Summer League debut against Bronny James
Basketball fans are shelling out record amounts to witness Flagg’s much-anticipated Mavs debut against Bronny James in the Summer League.
Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick in this year’s NBA Draft, will make his Summer League debut tonight for the Dallas Mavericks against the Los Angeles Lakers—and the buzz around the game has sent ticket prices soaring to unprecedented levels. Tip-off is set for 8:00 p.m. ET at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas.
Summer League game becomes must-see event
Anticipation for Flagg’s first appearance in a Mavericks jersey has been building not just since draft night on June 26, but for years. Widely viewed as one of the most promising American basketball prospects in decades, the 18-year-old forward enters the league with sky-high expectations. Many believe he could be the NBA’s next big superstar.
Adding even more intrigue? He’s facing Bronny James—LeBron’s son—who’s suiting up for the Lakers. The matchup has created the perfect storm of hype, turning a standard Summer League game into a must-see event.
Ticket prices for Flagg vs. Bronny
And the ticket prices reflect it. Fans hoping to catch the action from the lower bowl had to fork over at least $650, while courtside seats were going for as much as $2,500—a price point more commonly associated with the NBA Finals.
Flagg, who’s set to earn over $60 million on his rookie deal over the next four years, is expected to showcase the unique skill set that made him a sensation in high school. At 6-foot-9, he can play both forward spots, but his game goes far beyond the typical tools of a tall wing. Known for his elite defense and smooth jumper, Flagg can also handle the ball and initiate offense—traits that have drawn comparisons to some of the league’s most versatile stars.
Mavs coach Kidd outlines plan for Cooper Flagg
Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd seems eager to unleash that versatility from day one.
“I want to play him at point guard,” Kidd said. “I want to make him uncomfortable, see how he handles it. Let him run the show—play the two, the three… I know he’s confident doing all of that, but we’re going to challenge him. And I think he’s going to rise to it. I’m excited to get the ball in his hands against the Lakers.”
Bronny James’ Lakers objective
On the other side, tonight also offers a chance to gauge Bronny James’ development. The 19-year-old has started both of the Lakers’ previous Summer League games—against the Heat and Spurs—but has yet to make a major impact. His focus this summer is earning a more consistent role on the Lakers’ main roster after splitting time last season between the NBA and the G League. He appeared in 27 games for the Lakers in 2024–25, averaging 6.7 minutes per contest.
Tonight’s matchup, then, isn’t just about hype—it’s a window into the future of the league.
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