Maliq Brown Injury Update: Duke Forward to Miss Time After Minor Knee Procedure

Duke basketball forward Maliq Brown will miss a couple of weeks after undergoing a minor knee procedure, head coach Jon Scheyer confirmed at the team’s annual media day on Sept. 24 at Cameron Indoor Stadium. The update comes just months after Brown battled a shoulder injury that cost him key playing time last season.

Scheyer emphasized that Brown’s shoulder has fully recovered but said the knee scope was necessary. The Blue Devils plan to be cautious with his return to ensure he reaches full strength before the new season tips off in November.

Maliq Brown Injury Update and Key Details

Scheyer described Brown’s situation as “minor” and reassured that the junior forward should return soon. “Maliq, his shoulder is doing great. He had to get a scope on his knee last week. So he’ll be out for a couple of weeks here. But he’ll be back very soon,” Scheyer said.

Brown, listed at 6-foot-9 and 225 pounds, transferred to Duke from Syracuse in April 2024. Last season, he averaged 2.5 points and 3.7 rebounds in just under 16 minutes per game across 26 contests. Known for his defense, he collected 33 steals and nine blocks, earning praise as a “defensive menace.”

His shoulder injury forced him to miss 13 games last season, including a critical stretch late in the year. He was limited in the NCAA Tournament, playing sparingly in three March Madness games, including Duke’s Final Four loss to Houston. This latest setback is considered less serious, with recovery expected before the season opener.

Brown acknowledged the frustration of another injury but remained optimistic. “It’s definitely a little frustrating, just the process of sitting out, not being able to play with my teammates. It’s like a two-week process, so I’m just attacking it as much as I can and looking forward to the season,” he said.

Impact on Duke Basketball Ahead of 2025–26 Season

Brown’s absence leaves Duke without one of its most versatile defensive players during preseason practices. His experience and energy are seen as vital to Jon Scheyer’s system, especially as Duke integrates new pieces for the upcoming campaign. The program will lean on its depth in the frontcourt during his absence.

Duke’s calendar includes Countdown to Craziness on Oct. 3, followed by exhibition games against UCF on Oct. 21 and Tennessee on Oct. 26. The Blue Devils officially open the season on Nov. 4 against Texas at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte. Coaches and fans alike hope Brown will be ready by then.

The Maliq Brown injury update is a reminder of his importance to the roster. Duke will look forward to his return as the team builds toward another deep postseason run.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the latest Maliq Brown injury update?

Maliq Brown had a minor knee procedure and will miss a couple of weeks, head coach Jon Scheyer confirmed.

Q2: How long will Maliq Brown be out for Duke?

Scheyer said Brown will be sidelined for about two weeks but is expected back before the season opener.

Q3: What injuries has Maliq Brown faced recently?

He previously missed 13 games with a separated left shoulder and now is recovering from a minor knee scope.

Q4: How does Maliq Brown’s absence affect Duke?

His defensive versatility and experience are missed in practice, but the team expects him back soon.

Q5: When does Duke basketball open its season?

Duke opens the 2025–26 season on Nov. 4 against Texas in Charlotte at the Spectrum Center.