DALLAS — They arrived on this night of heavy anticipation to see the future, absorb the hype and fully understand what made him an in-demand No. 1 overall draft pick and designated Flagg bearer for the league.

And the crowd at American Airlines Center got what they hoped for Wednesday, but not necessarily who they wanted.

This was a coming-out party, for sure — Victor Wembanyama, No. 1 in 2022, making his early-early case for Kia MVP consideration.

As for Cooper Flagg, No. 1, 2025? Let’s just say there will be plenty of second chances to make a first impression.

And as for the game itself, and the initial implications? The Mavericks, coming off a forgettable season that turned around for the better with the Luka Dončić trade and Anthony Davis injury, are trying to reconnect with the c

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