Naji Marshall supports Cooper Flagg after Nesmith collision in Pacers matchup

Dallas Mavericks forward Naji Marshall defended teammate Cooper Flagg following a hard foul from Aaron Nesmith during their matchup against the Indiana Pacers on October 23. Flagg left the game in the second quarter after Nesmith's challenging play. Marshall's reaction came naturally, citing their close rapport, although he refrained from labeling Nesmith's actions as dirty. The foul was upgraded to a flagrant-1, and both players received technical fouls after a brief confrontation. Flagg was ruled out for the remainder of the game due to left shoulder soreness, having contributed 14 points, five rebounds, and six assists before his exit. The Mavericks secured a 16-point victory, propelled by Kyrie Irving's 24 points. Head coach Dusty May confirmed Flagg will be evaluated in the coming days for his injury.

• 6:23 AMYahoo Sports — Mavericks’ Naji Marshall talks standing up for Cooper Flagg after hard Aaron Nesmith collision