2 min read • February 19, 2025
Posted in
Duke University's men's basketball team faces a significant challenge as junior forward Maliq Brown has suffered a dislocated left shoulder. The injury occurred during the first half of the Blue Devils' 80-62 victory over Virginia on February 17, 2025. Brown exited the game after attempting to deflect a pass, immediately clutching his left arm, and did not return. He was later seen on the bench with his arm in a sling.
Head coach Jon Scheyer addressed the situation post-game, stating, "He's a big loss for us." Scheyer noted that Brown would undergo imaging to determine the full extent of the injury and emphasized the uncertainty surrounding his return, indicating that it would take time to assess how Brown heals and recovers.
Dr. David Chao, the Pro Football Doc, provided additional insight into Brown's injury. Based on video analysis, the dislocation occurred with minimal force, which is concerning. He explained, "The easier a shoulder comes out, the easier it comes out again." Dr. Chao suggested that an MRI would likely reveal joint laxity or a labral tear, conditions that might necessitate surgery. Regarding Brown's potential return this season, Dr. Chao stated, "Could he finish this season? Maybe with a brace, but that certainly will affect his defensive prowess and rebounding ability on the court." He also highlighted the significance of the injury occurring for the first time and the ease with which the dislocation happened as particularly concerning.
Brown's defensive contributions have been pivotal for Duke this season. Averaging 2.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.4 steals per game, his versatility allows the Blue Devils to implement a dynamic defensive strategy. His absence is expected to impact the team's performance, especially as they approach critical matchups and the upcoming NCAA Tournament.
In Brown's absence, freshman forward Patrick Ngongba II stepped up during the game against Virginia, contributing eight points and a rebound in 11 minutes. Coach Scheyer acknowledged Ngongba's development, stating, "I've seen such growth from him throughout the season. He's been in some big-time moments." Ngongba's increased role will be essential as the team adapts to Brown's absence.
Looking ahead, Duke is scheduled to face Illinois at Madison Square Garden on Saturday Feb 22. Both teams are dealing with player absences; Illinois recently lost freshman forward Morez Johnson Jr. to a wrist injury and is contending with a flu outbreak affecting several players.
Sign up to our FREE Weekly Newsletter here for all of our best injury-insights, free injury-based picks and special discount offers!
At SICscore.com, we provide expert insights from Dr. David Chao, MD (@ProFootballDoc) and other top sports doctors including Pro Basketball Doc John Hefferon MD to help fans and analysts understand the impact of injuries on the player and team. Here’s a summary of the latest insights. For full access to our expert NBA analysis, data, game previews and SIC Health Score ratings subscribe to SIC DATA from less than $1 a day here.
SIC PICKS ARE INSIDER INJURY KNOWLEDGE FROM FORMER PRO SPORTS TEAM DOCTORS TO GIVE YOU A WINNING EDGE IN SPORTS BETTING!
SIC PICKS are powered by the proven SIC Score algorithms from our exclusive panel of former Pro Sports Team doctors to give you a sports betting edge. Each day our team of doctors analyze the players and teams and share their expert insights to help you make informed bets on the biggest unknown to sportsbooks and sports bettors - player health and injuries!
For our Best Bets including spreads, totals, props and live in game with instant alerts as game day opportunities arise with research notes, sign up to SIC Picks here for less than $10 a week on an annual plan.
Sign up to SIC Picks today to get our picks sent direct to your cell!
Written by
