Cooper Flagg Mavericks debut jersey sells for record $1m in private deal

The jersey worn by Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg during the first half of his NBA debut has been sold for a record-breaking $1m (£790,000).

The memorabilia was sold privately by Sotheby’s following the teenager’s first professional appearance against the San Antonio Spurs.

This sale establishes a new financial record for any collectible associated with Flagg.

It also stands as the most expensive shirt ever sold through the official NBA Auctions programme.

Historic price for rising star

Flagg recorded 10 points and 10 rebounds during the 125-92 defeat on 22 October.

Since that season opener, the 18-year-old has rapidly established himself as one of the league’s most potent offensive threats.

He has already become the youngest player in NBA history to score 40 points in a single game.

“The $1 million result for Cooper Flagg’s rookie debut jersey is a powerful testament to the significance collectors place on true ‘first moments’ in sport,” said Brahm Wachter, Sotheby’s head of modern collectibles.

“This jersey captures the very beginning of a special career, one carrying huge expectations and excitement.”

Shattering previous records

The transaction eclipses the previous benchmark set by another international sensation.

Victor Wembanyama’s debut jersey, worn for the San Antonio Spurs, sold for $762,000 in November 2023.

Flagg’s market value has likely been bolstered by his historic performance on the court this season.

The Mavericks forward currently holds the single-game scoring record for a teenager after dropping 49 points in a recent contest.

Sotheby’s is set to continue its focus on the new draft class with an NBA Rookie Debut Auction running from 17-23 March.

Jerseys from fellow newcomers VJ Edgecombe, Kon Knueppel, and Dylan Harper are scheduled to be available.