Duke basketball key player Maliq Brown’s is set to miss the remainder of season due to a brutal dislocated shoulder Following their victory over Virginia…

Duke University’s men’s basketball team  has been dealt a significant blow with the injury of junior forward Maliq Brown. During the Blue Devils’ 80-62 victory over Virginia on February 17, 2025, Brown suffered a dislocated left shoulder late in the first half. He was unable to return to the game, and subsequent imaging revealed the severity of the injury.

Brown’s injury is particularly impactful given his defensive prowess. Standing at 6 feet 9 inches, he has been instrumental in Duke’s defensive schemes, contributing to the team’s sixth-best scoring defense in Division I. This season, he has averaged 2.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.4 steals per game, with an impressive 76.9% shooting on two-point attempts.

The timing of Brown’s injury is unfortunate, as the Blue Devils are entering a critical part of their schedule. They are set to face Illinois at Madison Square Garden on February 22, 2025, a game that will test their depth and adaptability. Head coach Jon Scheyer has expressed concern over Brown’s absence, stating, “He’s a big loss for us.”

In Brown’s absence, sophomore forward Patrick Ngongba II is expected to step up. Ngongba has shown promise this season, notably scoring eight points in 11 minutes during the win over Virginia. His performance in the upcoming games will be crucial for Duke’s success.

The Blue Devils’ victory over Virginia was a testament to their resilience and depth. Freshmen Cooper Flagg, Kon Knueppel, and Isaiah Evans each scored 17 points, with Flagg also securing 14 rebounds. The team’s ability to maintain a strong performance despite Brown’s injury highlights their potential to adapt and overcome challenges.

As the season progresses, Duke will need to adjust their defensive strategies to compensate for Brown’s absence. This may involve increased responsibilities for other players and potential tactical changes to maintain their defensive integrity. The coaching staff will play a pivotal role in ensuring the team remains competitive in the highly competitive Atlantic Coast Conference.

In summary, while Maliq Brown’s injury is a significant setback for Duke, it also presents an opportunity for other players to step up and for the team to demonstrate their depth and adaptability. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining how the Blue Devils navigate this challenge and continue their pursuit of success in the season.