Duke Basketball's New Era Begins with Star Recruit Cameron Boozer Leading the Charge
August 13, 2025
Duke basketball is entering a new era with the addition of five-star recruit Cameron Boozer, a top contender for the 2026 NBA Draft, as part of a star-studded recruiting class that finished No. 1 overall in 2025.
Freshman forward Cameron Boozer is expected to start for Duke, filling the role left by national player of the year Cooper Flagg, and is already showcasing impressive skills.
Boozer demonstrates strong rebounding, excellent footwork around the rim, and the ability to drive to the basket, making him a versatile threat on the court.
Despite losing some top NBA draft picks last season, Duke is considered a strong contender for the NCAA Tournament, with hopes of reaching at least the second weekend and possibly the Final Four.
His shooting ability, especially from three-point range, is noteworthy despite unorthodox mechanics, indicating potential as a top-five NBA draft pick.
Comparisons are drawn between Boozer and former Duke star Paolo Banchero, highlighting similarities in size, shooting, and ball-handling skills.
Duke's head coach Jon Scheyer plans to utilize Boozer's ability to attack smaller defenders in isolation plays, maximizing his physical and skill advantages.
Cameron Boozer will play alongside his brother Cayden, who was his high school point guard, emphasizing their strong on-court chemistry.
Standing 6-foot-9 and weighing 250 pounds, Boozer has a formidable physical presence, reminiscent of an NFL tight end, and dominated high school with four state championships and two Gatorade Player of the Year awards.
Boozer, along with Foster, Evans, Sarr, and Ngongba, is expected to lead Duke’s future efforts, with his size and skill set making him a central figure.
Duke’s bench includes notable players like Cayden Boozer, Maliq Brown, Nikolas Khamenia, and Darren Harris, who could impact the team's depth and rotation.
The projected starting lineup features highly touted recruits and key contributors, including Caleb Foster, Isaiah Evans, Dame Sarr, Cameron Boozer, and Patrick Ngongba.
Duke's consistent success in recruiting has kept them among the top college basketball programs, with top-tier classes in 2023, 2024, and 2025.
Summary based on 2 sources
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Sources

The Chronicle • Aug 1, 2025
Film room: Cameron Boozer brings big game, big expectations to Duke