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Rival High School Teammates Face Off in NBA Showdown

Source: Cooper Flagg gets revenge against former teammate Derik Queen as Mavs beat Pelicans (2025-11-22)

In a thrilling NBA matchup, former high school teammates Cooper Flagg and Derik Queen faced off as the Dallas Mavericks defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 118-115. Flagg, who missed a game-tying shot earlier in November against Queen’s team, scored 29 points and played a pivotal role in the victory, while Queen narrowly missed a final shot that could have tied the game. Their story is a compelling narrative of friendship, rivalry, and professional growth, highlighting their journey from Montverde Academy to the NBA. Since their high school days, both players have made significant strides: Flagg was selected first overall in the 2025 NBA Draft by the Mavericks, and Queen was picked 13th by the Pelicans in a controversial draft-night trade that involved a high-stakes unprotected first-round pick. This game underscores the evolving dynamics of NBA rivalries rooted in early friendships, and it exemplifies how young talent continues to reshape the league. Recent facts enhancing this story include: 1. Cooper Flagg is considered one of the most promising prospects of the 21st century, with scouts praising his versatility and basketball IQ. 2. Derik Queen has been recognized for his defensive prowess and leadership qualities, making him a key player for the Pelicans’ future. 3. The draft-night trade that brought Queen to the Pelicans was widely debated, with analysts questioning the valuation of the unprotected 2026 first-round pick. 4. Montverde Academy, where both players honed their skills, has produced numerous NBA talents, solidifying its reputation as a basketball powerhouse. 5. The Mavericks and Pelicans are both actively rebuilding their rosters around young stars like Flagg and Queen, signaling a shift toward a new generation of NBA talent. 6. The game was notable for its intense rivalry and sportsmanship, with both players exchanging respectful banter and demonstrating mutual respect despite their competitive edge. 7. Flagg’s performance this season has already garnered attention from NBA analysts as a potential future All-Star, emphasizing his rapid development. 8. Queen’s recent performances have shown significant improvement, especially in defensive metrics, making him a rising star in the Pelicans’ lineup. 9. The NBA continues to emphasize player development and youth talent, with the 2025 draft class being heralded as one of the most talented in recent history. 10. This matchup exemplifies the league’s increasing focus on storytelling and player narratives, engaging fans with stories of friendship, rivalry, and perseverance. This game not only highlights the individual talents of Flagg and Queen but also reflects the broader trends of youth development, strategic draft decisions, and the evolving competitive landscape of the NBA in 2025.

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