Flagg’s Comeback: Eye Injury Can’t Keep Him Out

In Durham, North Carolina, Duke University’s basketball team showcased their mettle on Saturday night as they secured a decisive 100-65 win over Florida State. Central to this victory was the impressive return of freshman sensation Cooper Flagg, who exemplified resilience by rejoining the game in the second half after a tough foul had him sidelined with an eye injury. The eye-poking incident occurred in the first half, forcing Flagg to take a break from the court.

Sion James, a teammate of Flagg’s, lauded his comeback and tenacity. “Cooper is one of the toughest guys I’ve ever played with,” James noted, expressing confidence that Flagg would return to finish the game. Indeed, Flagg not only returned but played with vigor, contributing 16 points with a shooting record of 5-for-9. His exemplary performance continued despite having been assessed and treated by the team’s eye doctor during a crucial part of the match.

Coach Jon Scheyer, himself no stranger to eye injuries after an overseas career-ending incident, empathized with Flagg’s ordeal. “You don’t think about injuring your eye as a basketball player,” Scheyer reflected, adding that Flagg appeared initially alarmed at the potential severity of his situation. This understandable concern stemmed from the unpredictable nature of eye injuries and their possible lasting effects.

Despite these concerns, Flagg overcame initial difficulties, such as vision issues, which he courageously powered through to make a robust comeback. His mother, who cheered him on from the sidelines, implored him to continue fighting by urging him to maintain his defensive and rebounding efforts. This motivation resonated with Flagg, who showed his teammates and coach he was fit to play.

Kon Knueppel, another freshman, admitted surprise at Flagg’s rapid return after witnessing his teammate’s frightening foul-inflicted injury. “It worries you a little bit when you see someone go down and stay down,” Knueppel confessed, commenting on Flagg’s facial scratches from the clash with Florida State’s Jerry Deng and 7-foot Alier Maluk.

James, reflecting on Flagg’s astonishing display of grit, remarked on the presence the freshman holds on and off the court. Such determination wasn’t unexpected for those familiar with Flagg’s capabilities throughout the season. Earlier in the game, Flagg’s initiative toward the lane and the blow from opposing players highlighted his potential as a future top pick for the NBA draft.

Flagg had initially walked off court assistance from a teammate and a trainer, leaving some, including James, concerned given his stellar performance averages of 19.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 4.1 assists prior to the game. Part of his tenacity came from maintaining a presence on the sidelines, offering moral support while his team expanded their lead into the break.

Amidst added pressure due to the absence of two fellow players — Tyrese Proctor, with a knee injury, and Maliq Brown — Flagg’s return bolstered the Blue Devils when they needed it most. His return after three separate absences during the course of the game provided a boost in an already tough physical battle. Even earlier in the week, he had secured his place as a strong player by achieving an ACC record, earning the ACC Rookie of the Week title for the 11th time this season.