Cooper Flagg will be sidelined until end of March with 6/8 weeks injury

Cooper Flagg, the highly anticipated freshman forward for the Duke Blue Devils, has been sidelined due to an illness that has significantly impacted his performance and availability. During a recent 77-71 loss to Clemson, Flagg experienced severe cramping, which he later attributed to an ongoing illness.

In response to Flagg’s condition, Duke’s head coach emphasized the importance of allowing the young talent to rest and recover fully. The coach stated, “It’s time to get him refreshed and back to where he was.”

Prior to this setback, Flagg had been a standout player for Duke, earning recognition as a midseason candidate for the 2025 Naismith Men’s College Player of the Year award.

The illness has not only affected Flagg’s health but also raised concerns about the team’s performance. Duke’s recent games have been influenced by the absence of key players like Flagg and Mason Gillis, who have both been dealing with illnesses.

As of now, there is no official timeline for Flagg’s return. The coaching staff is closely monitoring his recovery, aiming to have him back on the court as soon as he is fully fit. In the meantime, the team is adjusting its strategies to compensate for his absence, relying on other players to step up and maintain their competitive edge.

This situation underscores the unpredictable nature of sports, where unforeseen health issues can impact even the most promising athletes. Duke’s commitment to Flagg’s well-being reflects a broader understanding of the importance of player health in achieving long-term success.

For a glimpse into Flagg’s resilience and determination, here’s a video of him discussing his debut game with Duke