Fri Mar 14 23:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Duke’s Star Freshman Cooper Flagg Out of ACC Tournament Semifinal with Ankle Sprain
**Charlotte, NC** – Top-ranked Duke University suffered a significant blow ahead of their ACC Tournament semifinal clash against North Carolina. Star freshman Cooper Flagg, the ACC Player and Newcomer of the Year, was ruled out approximately two hours before tip-off due to a left ankle sprain.
Flagg sustained the injury during Duke’s quarterfinal victory over Georgia Tech on Thursday. He left the game in the first half after an awkward landing, returning to the bench but not seeing further action. While X-rays revealed no fracture, swelling persisted, making his participation in Friday’s game highly unlikely, according to Coach Jon Scheyer.
Despite arriving at the Spectrum Center without a noticeable limp or boot, Flagg was ultimately deemed unfit to play. His absence, coupled with the continued absence of key reserve Maliq Brown (who reinjured his dislocated left shoulder against Georgia Tech and arrived with his arm in a sling), dealt a considerable setback to the Blue Devils’ hopes. Flagg averaged 19.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists during the regular season. Duke ultimately lost to North Carolina.
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