BY ALEJANDRO LOPEZ & ADAM ZAGORIA
Cooper Flagg’s status ahead of Duke’s opening round in the NCAA Tournament was in the air after the consensus First Team All-American injured his ankle in the ACC Tournament. But to the surprise of many the Blue Devils will be sending Flagg out to play against No. 16 Mount St. Mary’s on Friday in Raleigh, N.C. (2:50 p.m.).
Flagg, the presumed No. 1 pick in the NBA Draft,. told reporters he is “pain free” and is “getting 100 percent mobility.”
It is unknown to what extent Flagg will be available or whether he will be subject to any type of minutes restriction. Nevertheless, Duke has shown that they are formidable, with or without their star player, as they went on to win the ACC Tournament with Flagg on the sidelines.
In fact, many might argue that it is a mistake to bring Flagg back so soon as Duke would be heavily favored against a No. 16 seed with or without Flagg.
On the other hand, he will be able get some reps in a game Duke is expected to win ahead of a tougher second-round game.
The 6-foot-9 freshman averaged 19 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4 assists in the regular season.
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