Duke Faces Injury Concerns After Cooper Flagg, Maliq Brown Setbacks
Coach Scheyer: Flagg’s ACC Semifinals Return a "Long Shot"
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke head coach Jon Scheyer acknowledged that freshman star Cooper Flagg is highly unlikely to play in the ACC Tournament semifinals due to an ankle sprain.
Flagg rolled his left ankle during Duke’s 78-70 quarterfinal win over Georgia Tech and was helped off the court before heading to the locker room. Though he returned to the bench in the second half, he did not play.
The injury came moments after Maliq Brown, one of Duke’s top defenders, suffered another left shoulder dislocation—less than a week after returning from the same injury. Brown was later taken to a nearby hospital for evaluation.
Scheyer Prioritizing Flagg’s Long-Term Health
Scheyer made it clear that rushing Flagg back isn't the priority.
"It’s not about being ready to go tomorrow," he said. "We've got to see if we can get him right for this NCAA Tournament run. I’d have to be really convinced to even consider it, and honestly, I think it’s a real long shot."
While X-rays confirmed no fracture, Flagg—the ACC Player and Newcomer of the Year—was already dealing with swelling. The 6-foot-9 standout has been a crucial piece for the Blue Devils, averaging 19.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists during the regular season.
Duke’s Depth to Be Tested
With both Flagg and Brown sidelined, Duke (29-3) faces serious depth concerns heading into the next round. Brown's defensive versatility—switching screens, guarding multiple positions, and causing key deflections—has been a major asset.
Duke guard Tyrese Proctor remained optimistic despite the injuries:
"It’s tough to see them go down, but it’s basketball—it happens. We’re going to get them right, and they’ll be good. We just have to keep playing our game."
As the Blue Devils push forward in the ACC Tournament, all eyes are now on whether Flagg and Brown can recover in time for the bigger challenge ahead—March Madness.
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