The first ACC Tournament semifinal features one of the most storied rivalries in college sports as the Duke Blue Devils (29-3, 20-1) take on the Tar Heels of North Carolina (22-12, 15-7). Storylines abound but the largest is Cooper Flagg's availability.

There was a development in the ACC Tournament on Thursday that could have ramifications at both ends of the bracket. Duke All-American freshman Cooper Flagg suffered a sprained ankle in the first half of the Blue Devils' win over Georgia Tech in the ACC quarterfinals.

Duke’s chances to advance become more difficult without its leader in every major category and its stalwart defender whose praises are sung by every member of his team. But the Blue Devils’ 78-70 win against Georgia Tech Thursday showcased a path to success.