Blue Devil Country

Big-Time Update Ahead of Duke Basketball Battle Versus Arizona

The Duke basketball team is back to full strength just in time for the Sweet 16.
Matt Giles|
Duke basketball head coach Jon Scheyer
Duke basketball head coach Jon Scheyer | Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

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Duke Blue Devils

When Duke basketball forward and defensive standout Maliq Brown dislocated his shoulder for the second time in the Blue Devils’ opening game of the ACC Tournament, many of the program's fans believed that could be the last they would ever see of him this season.

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Instead, just two weeks since the injury, the talented, long-limbed junior is going to be back for the Blue Devils’ Sweet 16 matchup against the Arizona Wildcats in Newark, N.J., on Thursday night.

Roughly 50 minutes before tipoff, the official Duke basketball account announced Maliq Brown’s availability with the following social media post:

The 6-foot-9, 222-pound Blue Devil newcomer, a transfer from Syracuse, has been one of Duke basketball’s best defenders all season long. He is averaging 2.6 points, 3.9 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.3 steals across 23 games this season.

The No. 1 seed Blue Devils will take on No. 4 seed Arizona as both teams look to punch their ticket to the Elite Eight, with an estimated tip time of 9:39 p.m. ET (CBS).

ALSO READ: Supernatural Duke Rookie Honored With National Distinction

Stay tuned to Duke Blue Devils On SI for more Duke basketball news.

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Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of Duke Blue Devils on SI, North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining SI in 2022, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.

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