On March 13, 2025, Duke University’s basketball team faced a pivotal moment in their ACC Tournament quarterfinal matchup against Georgia Tech. With the game tied and momentum shifting, freshman sensation Cooper Flagg suffered a significant left ankle injury that threatened to derail both his season and Duke’s championship aspirations.
The Injury Incident
Late in the first half, Flagg attempted to secure a defensive rebound but landed awkwardly, causing his left ankle to buckle. He immediately clutched his ankle in visible pain and was helped off the court by teammates. Shortly thereafter, he was seen being wheeled into the X-ray room in a wheelchair, raising concerns among fans and analysts alike.
Medical Evaluation and Immediate Impact
X-rays taken during halftime revealed that Flagg had suffered a sprained ankle, with no fractures detected. However, the swelling was considerable, leading Duke’s coaching staff to rule him out for the remainder of the game. Despite the injury, Duke managed to rally in the second half, securing a 78–70 victory over Georgia Tech.
Recovery and Return to Play
Initially, there was uncertainty regarding Flagg’s availability for the NCAA Tournament. However, reports indicated that he had fully recovered, regaining 100% mobility and returning to practice ahead of the tournament. His swift recovery was a significant boost for Duke, who had already lost forward Maliq Brown to a shoulder injury during the same game.
Duke’s Tournament Journey
With Flagg back in the lineup, Duke advanced through the NCAA Tournament, defeating teams like Arizona and Alabama to reach the Final Four. In the semifinals, they faced a narrow defeat to Houston, ending their national title hopes. Despite the loss, Flagg’s resilience and performance throughout the tournament underscored his importance to the team.
Looking Ahead: NBA Draft and Future Prospects
Following the conclusion of the season, Flagg announced his decision to forgo further college eligibility and declare for the 2025 NBA Draft. Widely regarded as a potential top-three pick, his decision was met with support from fans, teammates, and NBA analysts.
Cooper Flagg’s journey from a concerning injury to a successful return exemplifies his determination and the depth of talent within Duke’s program. As he transitions to the professional level, his experiences this season will undoubtedly influence his development and future success in the NBA.
