Mar 13, 2025; Charlotte, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils forward Cooper Flagg (2) is injured in the first half at Spectrum Center. Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Duke Blue Devils freshman sensation Cooper Flagg suffered a devastating setback in the ACC Tournament, leaving fans and analysts stunned. The ACC Player of the Year went down hard in the first half against Georgia Tech, appearing to injure his ankle. Teammates helped him off the court, but the situation worsened when a viral photo showed Flagg being wheeled out of the arena in a wheelchair. With his left shoe off, likely due to pain, he was on his way for X-rays.

The image, captured by sports reporter Bryan Fischer, quickly made rounds on social media, sparking an outpouring of support- even from Duke’s fiercest rivals. Fans, analysts, and former players reacted with shock, expressing sympathy for the freshman star who has been a key force in Duke’s championship aspirations.

Reactions Pour In As Cooper Flagg’s Status Remains Uncertain

Cooper Flagg (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

Cooper Flagg’s impact on the Blue Devils this season has been undeniable. Leading Duke in points (19.4), rebounds (7.6), and assists (4.2) per game, he has been the heartbeat of Jon Scheyer’s squad. His potential absence from the NCAA Tournament looms large, leaving fans anxious about Duke’s title hopes.

Even those who typically root against Duke felt the weight of the moment.

“I hate Duke as much as the next guy, but I hate this even more,” one fan wrote.

Another acknowledged the tournament-wide implications, stating, “Bummer for college basketball as a whole. Duke is a national title contender with Flagg. I’m not sure they are without him.”

Some questioned whether conference tournaments are worth the risk, arguing that teams prove themselves over months of play.

“No need for pointless conference tournaments that risk this,” one user posted, blaming the grueling schedule.

For now, all eyes are on Cooper Flagg’s diagnosis. Duke continues its battle against Georgia Tech, but the bigger concern is whether their star freshman will return for March Madness