Duke's Ngongba II Expected to Play vs. UConn in Elite Eight

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Duke center Patrick Ngongba II is expected to suit up and play against UConn in the Elite Eight after missing several games due to injury. Ngongba's interior presence and defensive ability will be important in trying to slow down Huskies star center Tarris Reed Jr. Duke has gotten healthier at the right time, with guard Caleb Foster also returning from injury in the Sweet 16.

Why it matters

Duke has been a national title contender all season, but injuries to key players like Ngongba and Foster threatened to derail their tournament run. Ngongba's return gives the Blue Devils more depth and size to match up with the physical Huskies, especially Reed, who has been dominant in the paint throughout the NCAA Tournament.

The details

Ngongba last played on March 2 and missed Duke's first-round NCAA Tournament game due to a foot injury. He returned in the second round, playing 13 minutes, and then saw 16 minutes of action in the Sweet 16 win over St. John's. While his minutes may still be limited, his presence should provide a boost against the Huskies' formidable frontcourt.

• Ngongba last played on March 2.
• He missed Duke's first-round NCAA Tournament game.
• Ngongba returned in the second round, playing 13 minutes.
• He played 16 minutes in the Sweet 16 win over St. John's.
• Duke and UConn will play in the Elite Eight on Sunday, March 31.

What’s next

Duke and UConn will tip off at approximately 5:05 p.m. ET on Sunday, March 31, with a spot in the Final Four on the line. The game can be seen on CBS.