Zion listed as day-to-day with Grade 1 right knee sprain

The No. 1 Duke Blue Devils appear to have dodged a major bullet when it comes to the health of one of their star freshman.

Zion Williamson has been diagnosed with a Grade 1 right knee sprain after suffering the injury during the opening moments of Wednesday's game against rival North Carolina. He is listed as day-to-day, the team announced Thursday.

The 18-year-old phenom and projected first overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft had his Nike sneaker shred apart after slipping awkwardly trying to plant his foot. Nike was forced to release a statement after a backlash online over the quality of the shoe.

Williamson headed to the locker room shortly thereafter and didn't return to the contest. Head coach Mike Krzyzewski told reporters following Duke's 88-72 loss that Williamson had a mild knee sprain.

Duke returns to action on Saturday against Syracuse.