As the NCAA Tournament kicks off, Duke basketball fans are buzzing with anticipation, though there's a bit of concern in the air. Coach Jon Scheyer shared on Wednesday that sophomore center Patrick Ngongba II is unlikely to suit up for the Blue Devils as they face off against the No. 16 seed Siena Saints at Bon Secours Wellness Arena.
Scheyer, speaking at a press conference, expressed cautious optimism about Ngongba's recovery, stating, “We’re going to keep taking it day by day. He’s eager to play, but we’re not quite there for tomorrow.” This leaves Duke, the No. 1 overall seed, potentially without two key starters, as guard Caleb Foster is also sidelined due to a foot injury.
Ngongba, who played a crucial role throughout the season with his defensive prowess, was absent from the last regular-season game against North Carolina. Both he and Foster were seen in walking boots during the second half of that game, which Duke won 76-61. Ngongba continues to use a protective boot and a scooter to manage his injury as the team gears up for their NCAA run.
Scheyer emphasized the importance of ensuring Ngongba’s foot is fully ready before he returns to action, saying, “In a perfect world, he’d be playing tomorrow, but he’s not quite ready.” The goal is to have him back by Saturday, assuming Duke advances past the first round.
Foster, who underwent surgery for a foot fracture after the UNC game, remains determined to return. Scheyer hinted that a deep tournament run could potentially see Foster back on the court, but it might take reaching the Final Four for that to happen.
Ngongba, standing at 6-11 and weighing 250 pounds, has been a defensive cornerstone for Duke, leading the team with 32 blocks and averaging 10.7 points and 6.0 rebounds per game. During the ACC Tournament, Duke showcased their depth with a seven-man rotation, featuring 6-9 freshman Cameron Boozer in the center position and Maliq Brown stepping up as a starter.
The Blue Devils, boasting a 32-2 record, claimed the ACC Tournament title with a series of impressive performances, including a nail-biting win over Florida State, a dominant victory against Clemson, and a hard-fought triumph over Virginia in the championship game.
As for their opponents, Siena enters the tournament with a 23-11 record, having secured their spot by winning the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) title. The Saints, ranked No. 183 in the NET rankings, are no strangers to facing top-seeded teams, having previously battled Maryland and Louisville in past tournaments.
With 7-foot Riley Mulvey and 6-10 Australian Tasman Goodrick anchoring their lineup, Siena will look to make their mark against the powerhouse Blue Devils. As the action unfolds, all eyes will be on how Duke navigates these early challenges and whether they can continue their impressive season with key players on the mend.