Lakers vs Mavs Summer League 2025: The NBA Summer League in Las Vegas tipped off with a bang on July 10, 2025, as the Los Angeles Lakers faced off against the Dallas Mavericks in a highly anticipated matchup. Fans packed the Thomas & Mack Center, buzzing with excitement to see top prospects like Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick, and Bronny James, the Lakers’ second-year guard, go head-to-head. The game didn’t disappoint, delivering an 87-85 Mavericks victory that had everyone on the edge of their seats. Let’s dive into the key moments, standout performances, and what this game means for both teams.
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Cooper Flagg’s hyped-up debut
All eyes were on Cooper Flagg, the Mavericks’ top draft pick and the 2025 Naismith Men’s College Player of the Year. The 6-foot-8 Duke product brought his signature energy, even if his shooting was off. Flagg finished with 10 points on 5-for-21 shooting, including a rough 0-for-5 from three-point range. But numbers don’t tell the whole story. He made his presence felt with six rebounds, four assists, three steals, and a crucial block late in the game that sparked a fast break. His highlight? A thunderous one-handed dunk in transition that sent Mavericks fans into a frenzy. Despite the inefficiency, Flagg showed why he’s pegged as a future star, impacting the game in ways that go beyond the box score. Mavericks coach Jason Kidd praised his effort, noting that Flagg’s ability to “find a way to win” is what makes him special.
Bronny James and the Lakers’ fight
On the other side, Bronny James, in his second Summer League stint, was looking to prove himself after a mixed performance in the California Classic. He started strong, hitting his first two shots, including a three-pointer over Flagg, to give the Lakers an early 5-0 lead. However, he cooled off, finishing with eight points, two rebounds, and two assists, missing a potential game-winning three in the final seconds. The Lakers’ offense leaned heavily on Cole Swider, who led all scorers with 22 points, including six three-pointers, and grabbed 10 rebounds. Dalton Knecht, another key piece of LA’s young core, added 15 points before exiting with a calf cramp, which coach Lindsey Harding confirmed was not a serious injury. Despite the loss, the Lakers showed chemistry from their California Classic games, with Darius Bazley also contributing significantly.
Ryan Nembhard steals the show
While Flagg and James drew the headlines, it was undrafted free agent Ryan Nembhard who stole the spotlight for Dallas. The Canadian rookie guard dropped 21 points and dished out five assists, including a clutch go-ahead three-pointer in the final minute that sealed the win. His poise and playmaking stood out, earning praise from Flagg, who called him “incredible” for his ability to score, pass, and defend at a high level. Nembhard’s performance was a reminder that Summer League often uncovers hidden gems, and he’s already making a case for a roster spot with the Mavericks.
What’s next for both teams?
The Mavericks’ win sets a positive tone as they head into their next game against the San Antonio Spurs on July 12. Flagg’s debut, while uneven, showed flashes of his potential, and Dallas will likely continue to challenge him with point-forward duties to accelerate his growth. For the Lakers, the loss stings, but their depth and experience give them an edge in upcoming games, starting with the New Orleans Pelicans on July 12. Players like Swider, Knecht, and Bazley will need to stay consistent, while Bronny has a chance to build on his early promise. Both teams are using Summer League to fine-tune their young talent, and this game was a perfect showcase of what’s to come.
This Lakers-Mavericks clash wasn’t just about the final score; it was a glimpse into the NBA’s future. With Flagg and Nembhard shining for Dallas and the Lakers’ young core holding their own, the Summer League is proving why it’s a must-watch for hoops fans. Stay tuned for more action from Vegas!