Understanding Jason Kidd’s NBA Journey
How well do you know Jason Kidd‘s career in the NBA?
Nineteen-year-old Cooper Flagg candidly acknowledged that he wasn’t particularly familiar with the Hall of Famer, who also serves as his head coach with the Dallas Mavericks.
“I’m not extremely familiar. I know he’s a legend, but no. I didn’t watch J-Kidd a ton,” Flagg told Andscape. A little research would reveal that Kidd is considered one of the greatest point guards in NBA history.
Kidd’s Impressive Achievements
Kidd made the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team in 2021. A two-time Olympic gold medalist and 10-time NBA All-Star, he helped the Mavericks secure a championship in 2011. Kidd ranks second in NBA history for assists (12,091) and steals (2,684), boasts 107 career triple-doubles, and is a five-time All-NBA first-team selection.
As the 1995 NBA co-Rookie of the Year alongside Grant Hill, Kidd’s initial experience mirrored Flagg’s, who is making a strong impression in his rookie season. The consensus No. 1 pick of the 2025 NBA draft, Flagg has been averaging 20.3 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. Kidd expressed it has been “amazing” to witness the rookie’s performance this season.
High Expectations for Rookie Season
Flagg, originally from Maine, is set to play his first professional game in New England against the Boston Celtics on Friday (ESPN, 7 p.m. ET). Like Flagg, Kidd faced immense pressure as the No. 2 pick in the 1994 NBA Draft, joining a Mavericks team that had just endured two disappointing seasons.
As a rookie, Kidd averaged 11.7 points, 7.7 assists, and 5.4 rebounds per game, including four triple-doubles, which led the league. “What I remember most is just all the games,” Kidd reflected, recalling his demanding schedule filled with All-Star competitors.
Role as a Mentor
Former Mavericks player Popeye Jones, now on Kidd’s coaching staff, remembered Kidd’s rookie impact: “He was the connector,” said Jones. “I was shocked at how big he was as a point guard with the speed he played.” Kidd’s ability to control games as a young player set a high standard in Dallas.
The Mavericks’ fortunes in the 1994 draft saw them select Kidd after missing out on the top pick, which went to the Milwaukee Bucks. Fast forward to the 2025 NBA Draft, the team defied odds to acquire Flagg, who in college averaged 18.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game.
Kidd’s Bold Moves
During his stint with the Milwaukee Bucks, Kidd successfully transformed Giannis Antetokounmpo into a primary ball-handler, setting the stage for his future success. Similarly, Kidd decided to place Flagg in a crucial role despite early criticisms following subpar initial performances.
By December, Flagg began to thrive, hitting an impressive 49 points against the Charlotte Hornets and averaging 27.3 points per game in February until sidelined by injury.
A Promising Future
Flagg credits Kidd for helping him build confidence and encouraging him to play authentically. “He’s given me a ton of advice,” Flagg remarked. According to Kidd, the major contrast between their rookie experiences lies in the talented teammates Flagg has, such as Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving.
While both Davis and Irving have faced setbacks, Kidd holds high hopes for Flagg’s future. “There’s no bar. There is no limit on this young man,” Kidd said, emphasizing that with time, Flagg will reach remarkable heights.
