Duke 'hopeful' Patrick Ngongba II can return in 2nd round - ESPN

GREENVILLE, S.C. — After nearly three weeks on the sideline with a foot injury, Duke big man Patrick Ngongba II could be back in the lineup for the Blue Devils' second-round game against TCU on Saturday.

Duke coach Jon Scheyer said he's «hopeful» Ngongba will play, although he said the sophomore still had some hurdles to clear during Friday's practice and overnight recovery.

«He needs to practice,» Scheyer said. «He needs to just be on the floor and move the way that he needs to be successful. He's been ramping up and doing a really good job. We just want to make sure he's feeling right to play at a high level — not just to be out there, but to be him.»

Assuming Ngongba is fit to return, Scheyer said he is eager to get his center on the court as much as possible.

With Ngongba and guard Caleb Foster out with injuries the past few weeks, Duke has managed with a seven-man rotation, playing several key players — including Cameron Boozer — out of position to fill gaps. Ngongba, who is averaging 10.7 points, six rebounds and 1.1 blocks per game, would free Boozer to be less of a rim protector as Duke looks to advance to the Sweet 16.

Ngongba hasn't played since March 2 against NC State.

«We want Pat to be out there as much as he can,» Scheyer said. «He's a game changer for our team. He's one of the most impactful players in the country.… I'm sure there will be some plays that he hasn't played in a little while. I hate to call it rust, but I'm sure some things that he has to work through. But at the end of the day, he just changes the dynamic of our team where other guys aren't playing out of position as much. We're able to get a better rotation. And you have a guy who's a big-time rim threat. His passing, his pick-and-roll