For Ngongba, this wasn’t simply another game, even with the overwhelming advantage. After recovering from an offseason foot surgery he underwent during his senior year of high school, the freshman made his Blue Devil debut on Saturday. The 6-foot-11 center may share the second-unit minutes with junior Maliq Brown and classmate Khaman Maluach, but he will probably support them in the paint for head coach Jon Scheyer.
Ngongba remarked, “Today was really exciting to get out there for the first time and make an impact.”
And he had an effect on the game. He had a team-high five offensive boards on Saturday afternoon, including the two noted above. In just 11 minutes, he added a defensive rebound to his total of six, which was the second-highest on the squad. Ngongba’s vision was also evident throughout, as he contributed two 3-point assists. Ngongba demonstrated exceptional talent even though he didn’t play until today.
Scheyer remarked, “I’ve watched Pat play since early high school.” “As a 6-foot-11 man with a 7-foot-3 wingspan, his feel and instincts are rare; his ability is special.”
Duke guard Darren Harris is another person who has seen Ngongba in action. After attending St. Paul VI High School together, which is also the alma mater of former Blue Devil Jeremy Roach, the two Virginians decided to attend college together.
Harris remarked, “Watching my brother go out there and make his debut was special.” We have discussed it for a considerable amount of time. I’m happy he was able to play and contribute to the significant victory because he has experienced numerous injuries during his time in high school.
As Harris said, it’s challenging to play basketball for years without being hurt, especially if you’re getting close to seven feet. After undergoing surgery in December of last year, Ngongba has had a lengthy recuperation process.
Scheyer stated that it would require time for him to develop his playing ability. “This year, there will be fewer minutes because we need to be careful with his loads in practice.”
But the Duke frontcourt has already been plagued by injury issues this season. Maluach was treated on Saturday for what appeared to be a foot issue, and he was forced to sit for a considerable portion of Tuesday’s game against Kentucky due to cramping. The frontcourt rotation will probably depend on Maluach’s condition.
Brown manned the paint for a while before Ngongba made his debut, and Scheyer’s squad had a slightly smaller lineup. But Brown and Ngongba both played at the five against the Terriers, and Brown went to the power forward when Ngongba was on the ground.
Additionally, if a larger defensive lineup is required, Scheyer might feel more at ease starting a team with Cooper Flagg at the three, Brown at the four, and Maluach at the five with Ngongba on the bench. Lastly, compared to Maluach, who mostly plays as a lob threat offensively, Ngongba offers a little more versatility in the paint.
“Pat is unique.” Brown stated. “You don’t see a big body like that that can switch off and defend his man.” He’s got a nice touch. Guarding him when he’s kicking it out or catching in the post is undoubtedly difficult. His presence on the court is fantastic.
Ngongba will be on the court for the foreseeable future, which is the first time in a long time that he will be there.
