Duke’s Flagg ‘doing better’ but out for ACC final…

Duke’s Flagg ‘doing better’ but out for ACC final…

 

Duke’s forward, Mark Mitchell, has provided an update on his teammate, Jacob Flagg, after the freshman was forced to sit out due to injury during the Blue Devils’ ACC Tournament run. Despite optimism about Flagg’s recovery, Duke head coach Jon Scheyer confirmed that the promising freshman would be sidelined for the ACC Championship game against the University of Virginia.

 

Flagg, who has been a key part of Duke’s success this season, suffered an injury earlier in the tournament, which led to his absence in the team’s semifinal victory. While Scheyer remained tight-lipped about the specifics of Flagg’s injury, Mitchell shared positive news, assuring fans that his teammate was “doing better” and recovering well.

 

“We’re hoping Jacob gets back soon. He’s definitely a big part of what we do on the court,” Mitchell commented after Duke’s win against Miami in the semifinal. “He’s a tough guy, and we know he’s doing everything he can to get better. It’s a tough situation, but we’ll handle it as a team.”

 

Flagg’s absence during the tournament’s final stages was felt, as he has played a significant role in the Blue Devils’ defensive lineup and has been instrumental in Duke’s offensive flow. His hustle and basketball IQ have made him one of the team’s standout performers in recent weeks, and his versatility on both ends of the floor has been crucial for Duke.

 

The news comes at a crucial juncture for Duke, as they now face Virginia, a team with a strong defensive reputation and a solid foundation built on smart, controlled play. Flagg’s defensive presence, in particular, would have been a boon for Duke in the high-stakes game, given his ability to guard multiple positions and disrupt offensive schemes.

 

Despite the absence of Flagg, Scheyer remains confident in his team’s ability to execute in the final. “We’ve got a lot of guys who are stepping up, and it’s not just about one player. We’re all in this together. I’m proud of how our team has handled adversity this season, and we’ll be ready for the challenge,” Scheyer said.

 

Duke’s depth has been one of the key factors in their strong season, and several players have risen to the occasion in Flagg’s absence. The likes of Jeremy Roach, Tyrese Proctor, and Dariq Whitehead have each contributed significantly, ensuring the Blue Devils remain competitive even without their full complement of players.

 

Flagg’s absence from the ACC Championship game is undoubtedly a blow to Duke, but the team’s resolve and unity will be put to the test. With a deep roster and championship experience, the Blue Devils have shown time and again they are capable of adapting to challenges.

 

Although Flagg’s status for the NCAA Tournament is still up in the air, the hope within the Duke program is that he will be ready to return soon. The Blue Devils are focused on securing their spot in March Madness and are optimistic that the freshman forward will be able to contribute when the team needs him most.

 

As the Blue Devils prepare for what promises to be a fierce showdown with Virginia, the team remains hopeful and determined. Flagg’s recovery will continue to be monitored closely, but for now, the Blue Devils are focused on the task at hand: winning the ACC Tournament and earning a top seed in the upcoming NCAA Tournament.