Cooper Flagg’s Grit Shines as Duke Dominates Florida State Despite Eye Injury
Durham, NC – Duke Blue Devils freshman sensation Cooper Flagg demonstrated remarkable resilience and toughness on Saturday night, leading his second-ranked team to a commanding 100-65 victory over the Florida State Seminoles despite suffering an eye injury in the first half. The highly touted prospect, widely projected to be the top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, showcased his unwavering commitment to the team, returning to the court in the second half to contribute significantly to Duke’s dominant performance.
The incident occurred midway through the first half when Flagg was inadvertently poked in the eye while attempting to drive to the basket. The contact, described as a hard foul, immediately caused visible discomfort, prompting the young star to leave the game and head to the locker room for medical evaluation. The Cameron Indoor Stadium crowd held its breath, concerned about the severity of the injury to their prized player.
Flagg remained sidelined for approximately 11 minutes, during which time Duke maintained a steady lead. However, the team undoubtedly missed his presence on both ends of the floor. His impact on the game extends beyond scoring; his defensive prowess, rebounding tenacity, and playmaking abilities are crucial components of Duke’s success.
To the relief of the Duke faithful, Flagg emerged from the locker room at the start of the second half, signaling his readiness to return to the game. His return injected a surge of energy into the Blue Devils, who continued to build on their lead, ultimately securing a decisive victory. Flagg finished the game with 16 points, contributing significantly to the team’s offensive firepower.
"He was beat up and scratched up," said teammate Sion James, praising Flagg’s toughness. "Cooper is one of the toughest guys I’ve ever played with. I trusted that if he was all right, he’d be back. He was back and better than ever." James’s comments highlight the respect and admiration Flagg has earned from his teammates in a short amount of time. His willingness to play through pain and adversity sets a positive example for the entire team.
Duke head coach Jon Scheyer shed further light on the nature of the injury, describing it as a bruised eyelid. He acknowledged the initial concern he felt when he saw Flagg’s reaction. "As a basketball player, you don’t think about injuring your eye," Scheyer explained. "That doesn’t cross your mind. I had never seen him look scared. I thought he was scared at first, rightfully so, because you don’t know how serious or permanent. . . . I was really nervous about him."
Scheyer also revealed that Flagg experienced some "vision issues," which prolonged his return to the court. The coaching staff and medical personnel took every precaution to ensure that he was fit to play, prioritizing his long-term health and well-being. The decision to allow him to return was made after careful evaluation and consultation with Flagg himself.
Despite his impressive performance, Flagg was not made available to speak to reporters after the game. The decision was likely made to allow him to rest and recover from the injury. Further updates on his condition are expected in the coming days.
Flagg’s performance this season has solidified his status as one of the top prospects in college basketball. He is currently averaging 19.3 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game, showcasing his versatility and all-around talent. His ability to score, rebound, defend, and create for others makes him a coveted player at the next level.
The Blue Devils have two games remaining on their regular-season schedule. They will face Wake Forest on Monday and then travel to Chapel Hill to take on archrival North Carolina on Saturday. These games will be crucial in determining Duke’s seeding in the upcoming ACC Tournament and the NCAA Tournament.
The victory over Florida State further solidifies Duke’s position as a top contender for the national championship. The team’s balanced roster, strong coaching, and unwavering determination make them a formidable opponent for any team in the country. Flagg’s presence is a significant factor in their success, and his ability to overcome adversity will be crucial as they navigate the challenges of the postseason.
The team’s depth was also on display Saturday. Players stepped up in Flagg’s absence and continued their strong play upon his return. This kind of depth is something that could carry them far during March Madness.
The upcoming game against North Carolina is particularly significant. The rivalry between the two schools is one of the most intense in college basketball, and the game is always a highly anticipated event. Duke will need Flagg to be at his best if they hope to defeat the Tar Heels on their home court.
As the regular season winds down, all eyes are on Cooper Flagg and the Duke Blue Devils. Their pursuit of a national championship is just beginning, and their journey promises to be filled with excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments. Flagg’s toughness, skill, and leadership will be instrumental in determining their ultimate success.
