Cooper Flagg ‘A Real Long Shot’ for Friday’s Semifinal Against ACC Rival UNC After Injuring Ankle
Introduction
ACC rival UNC Duke’s championship aspirations took a major hit as star freshman Cooper Flagg suffered an ankle injury, putting his availability for the upcoming ACC Tournament semifinal against North Carolina (UNC) in serious doubt. According to team sources, Flagg is considered “a real long shot” to take the court on Friday, leaving Duke with a major challenge against their biggest rival.
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As one of the most impactful players in college basketball, Flagg’s potential absence raises concerns about Duke’s ability to compete against a tough UNC squad and could have long-term implications heading into Selection Sunday and March Madness.
The Injury: What Happened?
ACC rival UNC Flagg injured his ankle during Duke’s quarterfinal victory, landing awkwardly after contesting a shot in the second half. He was immediately helped off the court and did not return for the remainder of the game. While initial reports suggested it was a mild sprain, further evaluation has left Duke’s coaching staff pessimistic about his availability for Friday’s showdown.
Extent of the Injury
Though X-rays came back negative for fractures, the swelling and pain have made it difficult for Flagg to put full weight on his foot. The Duke medical staff is monitoring his condition, ACC rival UNC but the team is unlikely to risk further injury by rushing him back prematurely.
Possible scenarios:
- Mild sprain: He could return in a limited role but may not be at full strength.
- Moderate sprain: Sitting out Friday’s game is likely, with a potential return in the NCAA Tournament.
- Severe sprain: His tournament availability could be in jeopardy, forcing Duke to adjust long-term.
How Flagg’s Absence Impacts Duke vs. UNC
With Cooper Flagg potentially sidelined, Duke faces a daunting challenge against a red-hot North Carolina team. Here’s how his absence could impact Duke’s game plan:
1. Loss of Defensive Presence
Flagg is an elite shot-blocker and rebounder, anchoring Duke’s defense. Without him:
- Duke loses rim protection, allowing UNC’s frontcourt more scoring opportunities.
- Armando Bacot, UNC’s star big man, could dominate inside without Flagg contesting shots.
- Perimeter defenders will have to be more disciplined, as there won’t be as much help defense inside.
2. Reduced Offensive Versatility
Flagg’s ability to score inside, stretch the floor, and facilitate the offense has made him an integral part of Duke’s system. Without him:
- Duke’s scoring will likely rely more on ACC rival UNC Kyle Filipowski and Jeremy Roach.
- Fewer second-chance points, as Flagg is a key offensive rebounder.
- Less spacing for three-point shooters since UNC won’t have to defend Flagg outside the paint.
3. Depth and Rotation Adjustments
Without Flagg, Duke’s coaching staff will have to redistribute minutes:
- Mark Mitchell and Ryan Young may see increased playing time.
- Duke could play more small-ball lineups, using Filipowski as the lone big.
- Increased reliance on Tyrese Proctor and Jared McCain for perimeter scoring.
What This Means for Selection Sunday
1. Potential Drop in NCAA Tournament Seeding
Duke is currently projected as a No. 2 or 3 seed in the NCAA Tournament, but Flagg’s injury could impact their final placement:
- A loss to UNC in the semifinals could drop them to a No. 4 seed.
- If the committee factors in ACC rival UNC Flagg’s absence, Duke could be given a lower seed due to uncertainty about his availability in March Madness.
2. Long-Term NCAA Tournament Impact
- If Flagg misses early rounds, Duke could struggle against lower-seeded teams.
- Without him, their defense and rebounding suffer, making an early exit more likely.
- If he returns but isn’t 100%, his effectiveness could be limited in key matchups.
Can Duke Beat UNC Without Flagg?
Although Flagg’s absence is a major setback, Duke still has a path to victory against UNC. Here’s how they can adjust:
1. Kyle Filipowski Must Step Up
Filipowski, Duke’s All-ACC forward, will need to take on a larger offensive and defensive role. He must:
- Dominate the post and score efficiently inside.
- Control the boards to limit UNC’s second-chance opportunities.
- Defend Bacot effectively without getting into foul trouble.
2. Perimeter Play Needs to Be Elite
Duke’s guards will have to carry the offensive load:
- Jeremy Roach and Tyrese Proctor must create shots off the dribble.
- Jared McCain will need to hit key three-pointers to keep UNC’s defense spread out.
- Duke must control the tempo to avoid letting UNC’s fast-paced offense take over.
3. Bench Players Must Contribute
With Flagg out, Duke’s depth will be tested:
- Ryan Young and Mark Mitchell must provide solid interior defense.
- Freshmen reserves need to bring energy and defensive intensity.
Historical Context: How Duke Has Fared Without Key Players
Duke has dealt with injuries to star players before, and history shows mixed results:
- 2019: Zion Williamson missed several games, but Duke still secured a No. 1 seed.
- 2022: Trevor Keels’ absence affected Duke’s seeding, but they made a deep tournament run.
- 2023: Dariq Whitehead’s injuries disrupted Duke’s chemistry, leading to an early NCAA exit.
If Duke can adjust successfully, they still have the talent to compete at a high level despite Flagg’s injury.
Conclusion
Cooper Flagg’s ankle injury puts Duke in a difficult position ahead of their ACC semifinal showdown with UNC. While his return remains unlikely for Friday’s game, Duke will need to adjust their defensive strategy, rely on Filipowski, and get strong guard play to keep their championship hopes alive.
If Duke falls short, the loss could impact their NCAA Tournament seeding, making Selection Sunday even more uncertain. However, if they manage to defeat UNC without Flagg, it could prove Duke’s resilience and strengthen their case as a serious contender in March Madness.
All eyes will be on Duke’s performance Friday night, as fans and analysts eagerly await updates on Flagg’s recovery and what it means for the Blue Devils’ postseason run.