Duke University basketball fans are facing challenging news as star freshman Cooper Flagg has been sidelined due to a sprained left ankle. Flagg sustained the injury during the ACC Tournament quarterfinals against Georgia Tech, leading to his absence in the subsequent semifinal matchup against North Carolina.
At the 2:48 mark of the first half, Flagg landed awkwardly after securing a rebound, causing immediate concern among teammates and fans. He was assisted off the court and taken to the locker room for evaluation. X-rays revealed no fractures, but significant swelling has left his return uncertain.
Duke’s head coach, Jon Scheyer, expressed that Flagg’s participation in the ACC semifinals was unlikely, emphasizing the importance of ensuring Flagg’s health for the upcoming NCAA Tournament. Additionally, forward Maliq Brown suffered a dislocated left shoulder during the quarterfinals, further depleting Duke’s roster.
Despite these setbacks, Duke showcased resilience in the ACC semifinal, narrowly defeating North Carolina 74-71. Kon Knueppel led the team with 17 points, while Khaman Maluach contributed 13 points and 9 rebounds before fouling out. North Carolina mounted a strong comeback, reducing a 24-point deficit, but crucial errors in the final moments prevented them from securing the win.
Looking ahead, Duke is set to face either Clemson or Louisville in the ACC Championship game. The team and fans remain hopeful for Flagg’s return in time for the NCAA Tournament, recognizing his pivotal role in Duke’s success this season.
