Cooper Flagg suffers ankle injury during crucial ACC Tournament game

In the United States, college basketball star Cooper Flagg suffered a left ankle injury while playing for the Duke Blue Devils during their ACC Tournament quarterfinal game against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets on Thursday, March 13, 2025. Flagg, who is considered a strong candidate for the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NBA draft, was injured with just under three minutes remaining in the first half as he attempted to secure a rebound. His ankle rolled after landing awkwardly on the foot of an opposing player, resulting in immediate distress. Flagg had to be assisted off the court and was later seen in a wheelchair, raising concerns among fans and teammates about his condition for the upcoming NCAA Tournament. Duke head coach Jon Scheyer confirmed that Flagg's X-rays came back negative. However, Flagg was not available for interviews after the game due to receiving treatment for his injury. Scheyer emphasized the importance of prioritizing Flagg's recovery rather than rushing him back into play, stating, "It’s not about being ready to go tomorrow. We’ve got to see if we can get him right for this run that we can make in the NCAA Tournament." This suggested that Flagg's participation in future games remained uncertain. The game on Thursday ended in a victory for Duke, who managed to overcome a 14-point deficit against Georgia Tech, ultimately winning 78-70. However, the loss of their star player, along with Maliq Brown who also sustained an injury, complicated their path forward. Brown also faced injury issues earlier in the season, having missed significant time with a dislocated shoulder. The team’s resilience and determination emerged as a focal point, with players remaining optimistic about their collective abilities despite the setbacks. As Cooper Flagg’s future in the NCAA Tournament became a topic of concern, fans expressed their hope for his quick recovery. His impact on the team was recognized not only by his scoring ability but also for his defensive prowess, which has been crucial for Duke’s success. The looming March Madness places additional pressure on the Blue Devils as they prepare for the next phase of the tournament, highlighting the potential consequences of Flagg’s injury on the team's championship aspirations.