Overview
- Cooper Flagg, Duke's standout freshman and a top NBA prospect, is recovering from an ankle sprain sustained during the ACC Tournament, leaving his availability for the first-round game uncertain.
- Head coach Jon Scheyer has expressed cautious optimism about Flagg's return, but no guarantees have been made ahead of the team's opener on March 21.
- Duke secured the ACC Tournament title without Flagg in its final two games, showcasing depth and resilience despite injuries to Flagg and forward Maliq Brown.
- The departure of defensive coordinator Jai Lucas to Miami adds another layer of challenge for Scheyer as the team navigates the tournament without its defensive architect.
- Duke enters the NCAA Tournament as the No. 1 seed in the East Region and remains a title favorite, bolstered by its strong roster and history of success.