Particle.news
Download on the App Store
45 ARTICLES
·
last mo.

Cooper Flagg's Injury Shakes Up Duke-UNC ACC Semifinal Dynamics

Duke star's absence offers struggling North Carolina a rare opportunity to secure a crucial NCAA Tournament bid.

CHARLOTTE, NC - MARCH 13: Duke Blue Devils guard Cooper Flagg (2) is on the floor after an injury to his ankle late in the first half during the ACC Men's basketball tournament between the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets and the Duke Blue Devils on March 13, 2025 at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, N.C. (Photo by John Byrum/Icon Sportswire) (Icon Sportswire via AP Images)
Duke forward Cooper Flagg sits on the bench during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game against Georgia Tech in the quarterfinals of the Atlantic Coast Conference tournament, Thursday, March 13, 2025, in Charlotte, N.C. Flagg was injured in the first half. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson)
Image

Overview

  • Duke forward Cooper Flagg suffered a low-grade ankle sprain during the ACC Tournament, ruling him out for the semifinal against North Carolina.
  • North Carolina, currently on the NCAA Tournament bubble, needs a win over Duke to strengthen their case for Selection Sunday.
  • UNC head coach Hubert Davis faces pressure to deliver after signing a $6.25M contract extension, with the team missing the tournament in 2023 and at risk of another miss this year.
  • Duke remains a formidable opponent despite injuries, with their roster's size and depth posing challenges for UNC's smaller lineup.
  • The outcome of the game could determine whether UNC's late-season momentum translates into a tournament berth or another disappointing finish.