- Cooper Flagg exits game after ankle injury during rebound attempt
- Duke trailed Georgia Tech by nine points at injury time
- Flagg required assistance to locker room, return uncertain
- ACC Tournament outcomes hinge on Flagg's recovery progress
- Ankle injuries pose long-term risks for NBA draft prospects
The ACC Tournament quarterfinal between Duke and Georgia Tech took a dramatic turn when freshman phenom Cooper Flagg collapsed mid-play, clutching his left ankle. The incident occurred during a critical rebound attempt where Flagg inadvertently stepped on opponent Darrion Sutton's foot, causing immediate visible distress. Teammates assisted the hobbling star off the court as medical staff rushed to evaluate what coaches later called a significant lateral sprain.
This injury comes at the worst possible moment for Duke, trailing by nine points in a game that could determine their NCAA tournament seeding. Sports medicine experts suggest even Grade 1 ankle sprains typically require 7-10 days recovery - a timeline that would sideline Flagg through the entire ACC championship series. Team orthopedic specialist Dr. Maria Gonzalez noted, Lateral ankle injuries particularly impact basketball players' cutting ability and vertical leap - essential skills for Flagg's two-way dominance.
The Atlantic Coast region has seen three similar cases this season alone, including UNC's Elliot Cadeau missing three conference games after a February sprain. Historical data shows ACC teams lose 68% of tournament games when starters exit before halftime. Duke's adjusted offensive rating without Flagg drops 15.2 points per 100 possessions according to Synergy Sports tracking.
NBA scouts have immediately downgraded Flagg's draft stock projections, with one Western Conference GM anonymously stating, Recurring ankle issues derailed Zion Williamson's rookie season - teams will scrutinize every medical report.Meanwhile, Duke's coaching staff faces strategic headaches, potentially needing to shift to small-ball lineups featuring sophomore Mark Mitchell at center.
