The Duke Blue Devils dominated the first round of the NCAA Tournament, defeating Mount St. Mary’s 93-49. The game marked the return of standout freshman Cooper Flagg, who fans were worried may miss more time than he actually did following an ankle sprain in the ACC Tournament.
Jon Scheyer, Cooper Flagg & Tyrese Proctor React to Duke’s Blowout Victory
The full press conference following Duke’s victory over Mount Saint Mary’s:
Flagg’s performance, alongside insights from head coach Jon Scheyer and standout guard Tyrese Proctor, showcased the team’s readiness for what lies ahead.
Flagg returned to the court with energy after missing the latter stages of the ACC Tournament, finishing with 14 points, seven rebounds and four assists in 22 minutes of action.
His seamless return eliminated any concerns about the long-term impact of his injury. Flagg’s play underscored his importance to Duke’s national championship hopes.
Flagg said he felt “completely 100 percent and confident going into tonight’s game.”
Head coach Jon Scheyer expressed gratitude for Flagg’s recovery and praised the team’s overall performance. He noted that Flagg’s time off allowed the team to grow through adversity — something that could pay off in the later rounds of the tournament.
Scheyer’s decision to manage Flagg’s minutes also reflected a strategic approach to ensure peak performance when it matters most.
“Proud of the performance. We have to move on very quickly, but good to get our feet wet and understand what the tournament is all about,” Scheyer said.
Proctor, who scored 19 points, continued to anchor Duke’s backcourt and emphasized the team’s unity and growth. He said the time without Flagg gave other players a chance to step up, strengthening the rotation and expanding the team’s options. Proctor’s leadership both on and off the floor remains a vital piece of the Blue Devils’ tournament push.
Duke’s lopsided win was a testament to their offensive firepower and defensive tenacity. The team’s ability to maintain high energy from start to finish signals their preparedness for the grind of March Madness.
Also Read: Recapping Everything Bill Self & Kansas Players Said After Shocking First-Round Loss
As Duke advances, its combination of veteran leadership and youthful talent makes it a legitimate contender. With Scheyer’s guidance and the team’s determination, the Blue Devils look ready to take on whatever March throws their way.
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