Duke Star Cooper Flagg Cleared to Play in NCAA Tournament Opener

After recovering from a sprained ankle, the All-American freshman participated in full practice and is ready for Friday's game against Mount St. Mary's.

Cooper Flagg, Duke's freshman standout and projected No. 1 NBA Draft pick, will play in the NCAA Tournament opener after recovering from a sprained ankle.
Flagg sustained the injury during the ACC Tournament quarterfinals and missed the semifinals and title game, where Duke still secured the championship.
Medical evaluations, including an MRI and X-ray, confirmed the injury was not severe, allowing Flagg to resume full practice on Wednesday.
Head coach Jon Scheyer confirmed Flagg is not compensating for his injury, though minor residual effects may still need to be managed.
Flagg leads Duke in all major statistical categories this season and is seen as pivotal to the team's championship aspirations as the No. 1 seed in the East Region.