Cameron Boozer is the next man up in a long lineage of Duke superstars. Through his first 11 games, the true freshman has started the season averaging 23.3 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists. His early consistent surge for the Blue Devils has helped them to a 10-0 record and the No. 3 ranking in the nation.
But what’s his secret to such success at a young age?
The Fuel Helping Cameron Boozer’s Early-Season Surge at Duke
Boozer isn’t just putting up good numbers against poor teams; he’s putting up elite performances against some of the best teams in the entire nation.
- vs. No. 24 Kansas: 18 points, 11 rebounds, 5 assists
- vs. No. 22 Arkansas: 35 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals
- vs. No. 15 Florida: 29 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal
- vs. No. 7 Michigan State: 18 points, 15 rebounds, 5 assists, 1 block, two steals
Talking about his phenomenal season so far, Boozer placed the credit on his teammates and coaches above all else. He complimented the veterans in the locker room, citing the confidence his teammates and coaches have placed in him, as well as the spacing in Duke’s offense that has allowed him to thrive.
Making the jump to college ball is a huge transition sometimes for freshman players, but it didn’t seem like that was an issue for the 18-year-old. According to Boozer, Duke has an amazing culture that he was introduced to, and players like Caleb Foster and Isaiah Evans played a huge role in helping him settle in easily.
In a recent episode of “The Brotherhood Podcast,” uploaded on December 14, Boozer said, “I mean, you two (Caleb Foster and Isaiah Evans) were a huge part of that, telling me no one can really stop you getting down the hill. I think just building on that from the summer till now.”
Having two established players at this level, who complement your game and make you feel unstoppable, can do tremendous things for a freshman’s growth.
Boozer credited the Blue Devils’ offense for why he’s been able to make an impact so early in his career. His ability to score without forcing shots stands out early. Nearly all of his production comes within the flow of Duke’s offense, attacking mismatches and exploiting defensive rotations rather than settling for contested jumpers.
Boozer further mentioned, “And then I think our spacing, we have a team that can shoot one through nine on our rotation, one through with bass, so just the spacing on the floor allows me to get to my spots and knowing that someone comes, I got great guys to kick out too.”
If this level of play continues, Boozer won’t just be Duke’s next freshman standout; he’ll be a centerpiece in the national title conversation.
