Duke University’s basketball team enters the NCAA Tournament as heavy favorites, following a stellar season capped by winning the ACC Championship. However, with star freshman Cooper Flagg sidelined due to an ankle injury for much of the ACC Tournament, questions linger about its prospects in the postseason. The Blue Devils' journey begins on Friday, March 21, 2025, as they take on the winner of the First Four matchup between American and Mount St. Mary’s.
Despite Flagg's absence, Duke managed to secure the ACC title, showcasing its depth and resilience. Flagg is anticipated to return for the Round of 64, yet his presence alone heightens expectations. Having already solidified his status as a projected top pick in the NBA Draft, Flagg's performance in the tournament is less about proving himself and more about enhancing an already impressive resume.
Among the players who do face a significant amount of pressure are Duke’s leaders. Tyrese Proctor, one of the few returning players from last season’s squad, had a dismal performance in the previous year’s NCAA Tournament, where he went scoreless in a shocking loss to NC State. This year, Proctor enters as the primary leader of the team, with the responsibility to spearhead Duke’s attack and lead by example.
Another player under scrutiny is Khaman Maluach, who has started every game but must now adjust to playing without Maliq Brown, his crucial frontcourt partner. Brown sustained a significant shoulder injury, sidelining him for the remainder of the season. Maluach’s dual role as both a defender and a scorer will be pivotal if Duke is to maintain its winning momentum through the tournament. His recent strong showings in the ACC Tournament, even while battling foul trouble, suggest he’s more than capable of stepping up.
Freshman Kon Knueppel is also someone to watch. Initially viewed skeptically due to disappointing performances against top-tier opponents, he rebounded impressively during the ACC Tournament, earning accolades that reflect his growth. Coaches and scouts are now interested to see if Knueppel can sustain this momentum and prove he has the potential to be more than just Flagg’s reliable teammate.
The National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) recognized Duke’s talent on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, announcing that Flagg, Knueppel, and Maluach all made the All-District teams. Flagg and Knueppel earned spots on the prestigious South Atlantic First Team, and head coach Jon Scheyer was honored as the South Atlantic District Coach of the Year. Flagg's statistics are particularly impressive; he leads the team with averages of 18.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.1 assists, making him a formidable presence on the court.
Duke heads into the tournament with a 31-3 record and currently lays claim to a 38.15 KenPom efficiency rating, which is among the best recorded since the welfare of KenPom metrics began in 1996. Historically, their performance establishes them as a formidable contender for the title, even as they aim to overcome seeded competition like Alabama, Arizona, and Wisconsin as they progress.
With the NCAA Tournament kicking off again on March 20, 2025, Duke will also face challenges in the East Region. Potential matchups include strong squads like No. 8 seed Mississippi State or No. 9 seed Baylor, whom they could encounter in the second round. Baylor features former Duke guard Jeremy Roach, who may present additional intrigue for Blue Devil fans as the tournament unfolds.
If Duke survives past these opening matches, they may encounter Alabama in what many are considering a likely heavyweight clash in the Elite Eight. Alabama, fresh off a Final Four experience, is no stranger to the stakes and is equipped with a roster that has both experience and talent. On the other end, Duke, known for its exceptional freshman talent that comprises a healthy mix of experience and youthful talent, presents a difficult matchup for any team.
As speculation swirls regarding Duke's potential path to the championship, the excitement continues to build through the Final Four in San Antonio. If recent history teaches anything, Duke has been familiar with making deep runs in the tournament, and this year they clearly hold the cards to do it again, aiming for their first national title since 2015.
Ultimately, March Madness remains unpredictable, which often adds to the thrill. Despite their strong stature heading into the tournament, Duke will have to play through a potential minefield of challenges and adversaries determined to upend the top-seeded Blue Devils. One thing is for sure, as fans prepare for the opening tip-off, anticipation and expectation from Durham will be sky-high.
