As the 2025 NCAA Tournament draws nearer, Duke’s head coach Jon Scheyer is optimistic about the return of one of the team’s most exciting young players, Cooper Flagg, who has been sidelined by an ankle injury. With the Blue Devils set to face off in their crucial first-round game this Friday, Scheyer has expressed confidence that Flagg will be able to suit up and contribute to his team’s efforts on the court.
Flagg’s absence has been a significant concern for Duke, as the 6’8″ forward has quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with this season. His combination of size, athleticism, and skill makes him one of the most dynamic players in college basketball, and his presence on both ends of the floor has been a key factor in Duke’s success. The young star has already garnered attention from NBA scouts for his versatile game, which includes excellent shot-blocking, rebounding, and scoring ability. Flagg’s basketball IQ and leadership have also played a significant role in Duke’s rise in the national rankings, making his potential return to the lineup even more crucial for the Blue Devils’ championship aspirations.
In recent weeks, Flagg has been nursing an ankle injury, which kept him out of some important regular-season games. The injury, initially feared to be more serious, had fans and analysts speculating whether the talented forward would be ready in time for the NCAA Tournament. However, Jon Scheyer has reassured both fans and players that Flagg is progressing well and is expected to take the floor for Duke’s first-round game this Friday.
“We’re optimistic that Cooper will be ready to go,” Scheyer said in a recent press conference. “He’s been working hard with our medical staff, and the progress he’s made has been impressive. We know how important he is to this team, and we believe he’ll be back at full strength when we need him most. It’s been a great team effort to get him back, and we’re all looking forward to seeing him play in the tournament.”
Flagg’s return couldn’t come at a more pivotal time for Duke, as the stakes in March Madness couldn’t be higher. As one of the favorites to make a deep run in the tournament, Duke’s path to the national championship hinges on the performance of their star players, and Flagg is certainly a centerpiece of their plans. Despite the injury, Flagg’s potential to make an immediate impact in the tournament remains unquestioned, and his all-around ability to influence the game will be a significant advantage for the Blue Devils in the high-pressure environment of the NCAA Tournament.
Duke’s first-round opponent, though still yet to be determined, will have their hands full in trying to slow down Flagg. Known for his ability to dominate both in transition and in half-court settings, Flagg brings a level of versatility that makes him a nightmare for defenders. His shot-blocking ability in the paint, combined with his offensive skills—such as finishing around the rim, shooting from the outside, and finding his teammates in scoring positions—makes him an integral piece of Duke’s game plan. Having Flagg back on the floor will provide the Blue Devils with a much-needed boost, as they prepare for what is expected to be a challenging matchup in the first round.
Flagg’s injury and subsequent recovery have kept fans on edge, but the talented forward has shown his resilience and determination to get back to playing shape. His approach to recovery has been methodical and focused, ensuring that he is able to contribute at the highest level despite the setback. Throughout his rehabilitation process, Flagg has remained in high spirits and has continued to support his teammates as they prepared for the tournament. His leadership both on and off the court has been a guiding force for the team, even when he wasn’t able to play.
For Flagg, the 2025 NCAA Tournament represents a golden opportunity to showcase his skills on the biggest stage in college basketball. If he’s able to play to his potential, his impact could extend well beyond the first round. The pressure of March Madness can bring out the best in players, and Flagg’s competitive nature and talent make him one of the most intriguing prospects in the tournament. While much of the national attention has been on Duke’s other stars, Flagg’s presence could be the difference-maker that propels the Blue Devils deep into the tournament and toward a potential national championship.
Jon Scheyer, who is in his second year as head coach of Duke after taking over for the legendary Mike Krzyzewski, has done an excellent job of managing the team through various challenges this season. With a mix of seasoned players and talented freshmen, Scheyer has guided Duke to another strong season, and the return of Flagg only strengthens their chances as they make their tournament run. Scheyer’s confidence in his team and in Flagg’s recovery speaks volumes about the trust he places in his star player and the team’s belief that they can compete for the championship.
In addition to the obvious physical impact Flagg brings to the floor, his return also provides a psychological boost to the team. Having one of the top players back after injury often provides a morale lift for the entire squad, and the Blue Devils will certainly benefit from Flagg’s confidence and energy. As the team prepares for the intense competition that lies ahead, Flagg’s return adds another layer of excitement and anticipation for fans, players, and coaches alike.
The timing of the injury and Flagg’s eventual return raises questions about how quickly he will be able to get back to his previous form. While he may not be at 100% immediately, it’s expected that Flagg’s skill set will allow him to make a significant impact even if he’s not fully recovered. His experience and ability to adjust to the flow of the game will help ease his transition back into competitive play. In the pressure cooker environment of March Madness, it’s often the players who can adapt the quickest that make the biggest difference, and Flagg’s basketball IQ makes him more than capable of doing just that.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Duke’s Cooper Flagg and how he handles the spotlight after returning from injury. If he performs to the level many expect, there’s little doubt that Duke will be one of the most dangerous teams in the field. With their deep roster, talented coaching staff, and the leadership of Flagg, the Blue Devils could be poised for a deep tournament run, but it will be crucial for Flagg to stay healthy and continue his recovery.
March Madness has a way of turning players into legends, and for Cooper Flagg, the 2025 NCAA Tournament could be his chance to cement himself as one of the most dynamic and exciting young talents in college basketball. If he returns to full health and plays up to his potential, Duke will have a strong chance to make it far into the tournament, and Flagg’s star could continue to rise on the national stage.
Fans of Duke and college basketball alike are eagerly anticipating the first-round game and hoping for a healthy and impactful return from Cooper Flagg. With a game-changing player like Flagg back in the lineup, the Blue Devils’ chances in the NCAA Tournament just got that much brighter. The road to the championship will be long, but with Flagg leading the charge, Duke will certainly be one of the teams to watch in this year’s March Madness.