Cooper Flagg’s injury during the 2025 ACC Tournament has sent shockwaves through college basketball—and his growing collectibles market. As Duke’s freshman phenom and a projected No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, any disruption to his season raises questions about the impact on both his team’s championship hopes and his trading card values.
If Flagg’s injury turns out to be minor, sidelining him for just a week or two, his card values should hold steady or even spike.
Why? Collectors and investors love a comeback story. A brief absence could add to his mystique, and if he returns to lead Duke on a deep tournament run, his cards could see a notable surge in demand. This is a familiar pattern—historically, young stars who overcome setbacks often see their collectibles rise in anticipation of a strong return.
On the flip side, if Flagg is forced to miss the entire NCAA Tournament, his market could take a temporary hit.
March Madness is where college basketball legends are made. Players like Carmelo Anthony and Zion Williamson saw their cards skyrocket after dominant tournament performances. If Flagg doesn’t get that moment, the hype could shift to other stars making headlines in the postseason.
Regardless of what happens in March, Flagg’s long-term trajectory remains strong. His status as a top NBA prospect is secure, and for serious collectors, any dip in card prices might actually be a prime buying opportunity.
With his NBA future intact, Cooper Flagg remains one of the biggest names in basketball—injury or not. If he makes a quick return and shines in March, his card values could reach new heights. But if he’s done for the season, collectors may have to wait until NBA Draft Night for the next big price surge. Either way, the hype around Flagg isn’t fading anytime soon.