What happened to Maliq Brown? Duke coach Jon Scheyer provides big update on Blue Devils forward

Duke forward Maliq Brown is expected to be out for several weeks after suffering a sprained knee during Saturday’s 86-78 win over Notre Dame. Blue Devils coach Jon Scheyer confirmed the news on Monday.

The 6-foot-9 junior from Virginia transferred to Duke from Syracuse in the spring. Since joining the Blue Devils, he has proven to be a valuable asset in the frontcourt, providing depth and showcasing his skills as one of the Atlantic Coast Conference’s top interior defenders.

“He’ll miss an extended period of time here,” Scheyer said. “He’ll miss weeks.”

Brown’s defensive presence was especially evident earlier this season in a key victory over Auburn, where he played a crucial role. He followed that performance with a strong outing against Louisville, contributing six points, 11 rebounds and three steals.

This season, Brown has averaged 2.5 points, 4.5 rebounds and 17.9 minutes per game. His absence leaves a significant gap in third-ranked Duke’s rotation, particularly in the defensive and for rebounding.

To compensate for Brown’s absence, Duke will rely more on veteran forward Mason Gillis, who transferred from Purdue in the spring. Additionally, freshman big man Patrick Ngongba could see increased playing time.

Ngongba’s size and potential make him a promising option for the Blue Devils (14-3, 6-0 ACC) as they navigate the coming weeks without Brown.

Duke's Jon Scheyer and Cooper Flagg express concern over Maliq Brown’s injury against Notre Dame

Duke forward Maliq Brown played less than a minute in the No. 3-ranked Blue Devils' 86-78 victory over Notre Dame on Saturday before leaving with a knee injury. His right knee collided with teammate Mason Gillis.

“He’s proven to be one of our toughest guys, easily,” Scheyer said after the game. “The fact that he couldn’t go back in the game, I don’t think that’s a good sign.

“Maliq just provides such a different versatility with his defense.”

Duke star Cooper Flagg also spoke about Brown’s importance in the locker room after the win. Flagg, who led the team with an extraordinary 42-point performance, highlighted Brown’s defensive prowess.

“We miss Maliq incredibly whenever he’s not on the court,” Flagg said. “Even if he’s just getting water on the bench, the presence he brings defensively.

"I’ve never seen somebody with such a knack for getting his hands on the ball, tipping it and poking it away from guys. His energy and defensive ability are unmatched.”

Without Brown, the Blue Devils will need to adjust their defensive strategy and rely on other players to fill the void. As Duke looks to extend its 10-game winning streak and remain undefeated.