Patrick Ngongba II Sustained Eye Injury

The Duke forward received stitches after an incident during the team's Countdown to Craziness event.

Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Basketball

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Duke basketball forward Patrick Ngongba II required stitches for an eye injury sustained during the Countdown to Craziness event on Saturday night. Despite the recent setback, the 6-foot-11 player has confirmed he remains healthy for the upcoming 2026-27 season.

Why it matters

Ngongba is expected to play a central role as an offensive hub for Duke this year. His availability is critical for the team as they prepare to open their season in November.

The 6-foot-11 forward averaged 10.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game during the previous campaign. He underwent additional surgical procedures on his foot and wrist earlier this summer.

The players

Patrick Ngongba II

He is a 6-foot-11 forward for the Duke basketball team who originally hails from Manassas, Virginia.

Duke University

This is a private research university in Durham, North Carolina, known for its highly successful NCAA Division I basketball program.

The details

The injury occurred when Ngongba took an elbow to the face during the promotional event. He is currently focused on recovery while the team prepares for a series of exhibition games against Belmont, Tennessee, and Kansas.

Summer 2026: Ngongba underwent surgery on his foot and wrist.
October 3, 2026: Ngongba suffered an eye injury at Countdown to Craziness.
October 8, 2026: Duke plays an exhibition game against Belmont.
November 2, 2026: Duke begins the 2026-27 season against Army.

Season Trajectory

Ngongba's health status is a major factor in Duke's roster stability as they integrate him into the offensive scheme. His ability to perform at a high level directly influences the team's competitive standing heading into the opening of the 2026-27 season.

Ngongba's status for the upcoming exhibition schedule against Belmont, Tennessee, and Kansas will determine the primary rotation for the season opener against Army. His availability directly impacts the team's ability to utilize his playmaking and rebounding metrics from the previous year.

The takeaway

Maintaining player health throughout the long preseason is essential for team chemistry and tactical consistency. With exhibition games approaching, the focus shifts to how effectively the coaching staff can adjust rotations to account for recent injury updates.