The most exhilarating time in the sports world is upon us — welcome to March Madness! Even if your team isn’t dancing this year, there’s still an electric atmosphere for everyone to soak in. From Cinderella stories capturing our hearts to jaw-dropping comebacks, this tournament promises to deliver the kind of drama and talent that only college basketball can provide.
All eyes will be on Duke’s standout freshman, Cooper Flagg, who is being hailed as one of the most electrifying prospects for the upcoming NBA Draft. The Blue Devils are heavy favorites to claim the championship this year, which could set the stage for Flagg’s monumental moment on the national stage. However, the burning question is how healthy he will be when the tournament kicks off.
Let’s break down what we know about Flagg’s current status, particularly regarding his recent ankle injury.
As of now, there’s no official update on whether Flagg will be available for Duke’s highly anticipated opening game in the Round of 64. However, Duke’s head coach, Jon Scheyer, is keeping hope alive. On a recent ESPN segment, he expressed optimism regarding Flagg’s recovery, stating, “It’s full steam ahead” and affirmatively noted, “Our goal is for Friday, no question about it.” With this kind of positive outlook, it’s reasonable to believe that Flagg could make his much-awaited return just in time for the tournament’s kickoff.
Flagg suffered his ankle injury during Duke’s ACC Tournament matchup against Georgia Tech. Thankfully, medical assessments indicated it was only a sprain and not a fracture, easing concerns of a longer absence. With Scheyer’s continued confidence in Flagg’s health, we can expect to see him making an appearance, barring any unexpected setbacks.
When it comes to Duke’s tournament schedule, they are set to face the winner of the First Four matchup between American University and Mount St. Mary’s University in the Round of 64. If Duke advances, they’ll likely meet the winner of the Mississippi State versus Baylor game in the Round of 32.
Now, let’s take a look at why Cooper Flagg has created such a buzz this season. With averages of 30.4 minutes per game, nearly 19 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and shooting splits of 48.8% from the field and 36.8% from beyond the arc, Flagg has established himself as a dominating force. His recent recognition as a unanimous All-American only solidifies his status as one of the top-tier talents heading into the 2025 NBA Draft.
As we gear up for the madness ahead, one thing is for sure: whether it’s Flagg dazzling on the court or other thrilling matchups, this year’s tournament is bound to be memorable. Buckle up, basketball fans, because March Madness is here, and it’s going to be a wild ride!
