The Dallas Mavericks have experienced a roller coaster of a season, but one emerging star may be more than just a bright spot – he could be the reason coach Jason Kidd stays at the helm longer than expected.

Kidd, who arrived in Dallas ahead of the 2021/22 NBA season, has faced questions about his future as head coach. Yet when asked recently, Kidd didn’t shy away from pointing to rookie phenom Cooper Flagg as one of the key factors that keeps him excited about his job.

Kidd referred to Flagg as a “unicorn,” a rare talent that makes him eager to come to the arena every day and help the young star develop into one of the league’s elite players.

Flagg‘s combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ is precisely the type of player a coach dreams of molding at the start of a career. Kidd explained that challenging Flagg and pushing him out of his comfort zone is part of what keeps coaching rewarding for him, a sign that he still loves the daily grind of developing talent.

But Kidd was quick to add that it isn’t only Flagg who motivates him, it’s mentoring the entire young core, guiding them as they chase their dreams of becoming impactful NBA players on and off the court.

“Not just him, but the rest of the guys,” Kidd said. “The guys that are twoways that could fulfill their dream to get that NBA contract and be part of a roster… That’s the fun part, trying to help these young men on and off the floor.”

This perspective underscores Kidd‘s reputation not just as a tactician, but as a coach who prioritizes player growth and personal development.

Flagg‘s rookie campaign has been nothing short of remarkable. The 19yearold firstoverall pick from the 2025 NBA Draft has consistently delivered big numbers, showcasing scoring, rebounding, and playmaking that few rookies achieve so early in their careers.

He’s averaged 19.1 points, 6.4 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 1.3 steals per game heading into a matchup against the Denver Nuggets, all while being one of the youngest players in the league. His performances have already drawn comparisons to some of the most talented rookies in recent NBA history.

How Flagg’s rise could shape Kidd’s future

Flagg‘s emergence gives Kidd a compelling reason to remain invested in the team’s longterm growth. Beyond his eyecatching box scores, Flagg brings energy, versatility, and leadership potential that have helped stabilize the Mavericks during turbulent stretches.

His ability to score in clutch moments, and maintain consistency even under pressure, gives Dallas a goto option when the game is on the line.

This development has become even more critical with veteran Anthony Davis sidelined for at least six weeks due to a hand injury. The team will rely heavily on Flagg to shoulder responsibility on both ends of the floor.

For Kidd, guiding a generational talent like Flagg through these challenges is not just a professional duty but a rare opportunity to shape a future star.

The promise of helping Flagg reach his fullest potential and witnessing the growth of the Mavericks’ young core may well influence Kidd‘s decision to continue coaching for years to come.

For Dallas fans, the excitement around Flagg‘s rookie season is palpable. If he continues on this trajectory, his impact could extend far beyond wins and losses, potentially shaping the future of the Mavericks’ leadership itself.

Kidd‘s renewed enthusiasm serves as a reminder that coaching is often about the players you help develop, and Flagg has already proven he is worth every minute of effort.