Duke Blue Devils' basketball team faced adversity but emerged victorious with a thrilling 78-70 win over Georgia Tech, securing their place in the ACC Tournament semifinals. While the performance showcased the team's talent and depth, the game was marred by the injury of star player Cooper Flagg, leaving fans and analysts concerned about his availability as the NCAA tournament approaches.
On March 13, 2025, the top-ranked Blue Devils demonstrated both grit and determination after initially trailing by as much as 14 points. Freshman Kon Knueppel spearheaded the comeback effort, scoring a career-high 28 points along with eight assists and five rebounds. His performance was pivotal, especially after Flagg exited the game due to his ankle injury.
“I couldn't be more proud,” said Duke coach Jon Scheyer. “You're facing a team fighting for their life. We suffer two injuries in the first half, and to respond to all of this was really impressive. So many guys stepped up, and Kon was solid throughout.” Notably, Knueppel became the first Duke player to achieve at least 25 points, five rebounds, and five assists during an ACC Tournament game.
Flagg, the ACC Player of the Year and projected No. 1 NBA Draft pick, went down late in the first half after landing awkwardly on the foot of Georgia Tech’s Baye Ndongo. He only managed two points on 1-for-7 shooting before leaving the game. Flagg returned to the bench early during the second half but did not re-enter the game. X-rays taken at the stadium were negative, but Scheyer expressed concerns about swelling, which could dictate Flagg's availability moving forward.
“It was good to see him moving around out there,” Knueppel remarked about Flagg, acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding his teammate's injury. The Blue Devils entered the game with momentum, having won eight straight games and boasting a 29-3 record this season. Despite Flagg's situation, they exhibited remarkable resilience.
Pushing through, Duke's depth came to fruition. Alongside Knueppel, both Isaiah Evans and Khaman Maluach contributed significantly, scoring 14 points each. The Blue Devils, who started the game 0-for-13 from beyond the arc, managed to convert 7 of their last 17 attempts, proving their capacity to respond under pressure.
Georgia Tech's performance was commendable as well, with Duncan Powell leading the Yellow Jackets with 24 points. Even as the unranked team fought hard, they faced challenges, particularly during the second half when they struggled to maintain momentum and allowed Duke to capitalize on their mistakes.
After trailing 31-26 at halftime, Duke stormed out of the locker room, scoring the first 12 points of the second half, part of a significant 19-2 run. The Blue Devils' defense was effective, holding Georgia Tech to only 13 points for much of the second half.
Duke will now face either fifth-seeded North Carolina or fourth-seeded Wake Forest on March 14, 2025, for their next ACC Tournament encounter. The matchup will test not only the Blue Devils' overall strength but also their ability to adapt without Flagg and Maliq Brown, who also left the game with an injury.
Brown, who suffered a re-injury to his left shoulder, was taken from the stadium on a stretcher, amplifying concerns for Duke's lineup as they hope to contend for the ACC title and secure their standing for the NCAA tournament.
Beyond the injuries, the game highlighted Duke's depth and potential. Even if Flagg and Brown are unavailable, the Blue Devils have the talent to persevere. Coach Scheyer reassured fans, noting the principle of "next man up." Knueppel emphasized, “We have to be ready to go. We have so many talented players; when guys are out, we have the ability to step up.”
The victory against Georgia Tech reinforces Duke's prowess as they seek to clinch another ACC title, but with possible injuries to key players, they face new challenges as they prepare for the intense march toward the NCAA tournament.