Cooper Flagg’s injury in the 2025 ACC Tournament has left Duke fans holding their breath—but they’re not the only ones paying attention. The projected No. 1 pick in the NBA Draft has been the face of college basketball this season, and any disruption to his momentum could send ripples through his fast-rising collectibles market.
Will his card values take a hit, or is this a prime buying opportunity?
A Short Absence Could Boost Demand
If Flagg’s injury turns out to be minor, with him missing only a game or two, his card market could actually see an uptick.Collectors and investors often buy in during moments of uncertainty, expecting a strong return. If Flagg comes back in time for a deep NCAA Tournament run, demand for his cards could surge, adding to his already impressive legacy.
Longer Layoff? Prices May Dip—Temporarily
On the other hand, if Flagg misses the entire NCAA Tournament, his short-term value could take a hit.March Madness has a way of turning great players into legends, with deep tournament runs fueling card price spikes. Just look at past stars like Carmelo Anthony and Zion Williamson—both saw their collectibles explode after dominating in March. If Flagg doesn’t get his moment on the big stage, some of that momentum could shift to other breakout stars making headlines.
Long-Term Outlook: Still a Blue-Chip Investment
Even if Flagg doesn’t return this season, his NBA future remains rock solid. As one of the most hyped prospects in years, his draft stock isn’t going anywhere, which means his collectibles will still hold long-term value.For collectors, this moment presents two strategies:
- Short-term investors may look to sell now before more uncertainty builds.
- Long-term buyers could see a dip as the perfect entry point before Flagg hits the NBA stage.
The Bottom Line
If Cooper Flagg returns and dominates, his card prices could reach new heights. If he misses March Madness, the market may cool temporarily—but once the NBA hype cycle kicks in, his collectibles will be right back in demand.Either way, Flagg’s place in the hobby is secure. It’s just a question of when, not if, his value soars again.
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