The buzz around Duke’s summer practice was supposed to center on chemistry, growth, and leadership from its returning core—but instead, it’s turned into a spotlight on Caleb Foster, and not for the reasons Blue Devil fans were hoping.
According to multiple sources present during the opening week of workouts, Foster has looked uncharacteristically hesitant, unfocused, and out of rhythm in competitive drills. While the rest of the team adapts quickly to the summer tempo, one insider didn’t hold back:
> “He looked lost. It’s not what you expect from a guy entering his second year in the system.”
It’s a tough look for Foster, who entered the offseason with expectations of becoming a cornerstone for Duke’s 2024–25 backcourt—especially with Tyrese Proctor off to the NBA and Jeremy Roach transferring to Baylor. But so far, Foster hasn’t looked ready to seize that spotlight.
The Cameron Boozer Factor
The shift may have been intensified by the arrival of Cameron Boozer, the ultra-competitive transfer whose first practice reportedly changed the entire tone of Duke’s summer. Boozer, with his court awareness, toughness, and leadership, has instantly become a voice in the gym—and it’s had a noticeable impact on Foster.
> “You could see it—Boozer was leading, barking out sets, going full speed. Caleb seemed unsure, like he didn’t want to overstep,” one observer shared.
That lack of confidence is raising eyebrows. Foster was expected to be the one controlling tempo and leading by example. Instead, he’s been overshadowed by a newcomer who’s treating practice like March Madness.
No Time for Comfort Zones
Sources close to the program say Jon Scheyer is running a no-nonsense camp this summer, where returning players are no longer getting the benefit of the doubt. Everything is earned—minutes, reps, leadership. And so far, Foster hasn’t made the statement expected from a second-year guard.
> “Last year, you could say he was a freshman,” one team insider said. “This year, there are no excuses. And Boozer’s setting a bar that some guys can’t reach right now.”
While Foster has the skills to thrive—good size, shot-making ability, and natural scoring instincts—he’s been quiet both vocally and in execution, a dangerous combination in an environment where confidence is everything.
Fans React: Alarm Bells or Just Growing Pains?
Across Duke Twitter and fan forums, reactions are starting to surface. Some are calling for patience, believing Foster just needs time to find his rhythm. Others see Boozer’s early dominance as a sign that the rotation could change faster than expected.
> “If Foster doesn’t respond soon, he’s going to get buried,” one fan wrote. “This isn’t a development year. This is a win-now roster.”
And that’s the pressure facing Foster right now—he’s not just fighting for minutes… he’s fighting to prove he still belongs at the top of Duke’s depth chart.
Final Word
He looked lost.
That’s the phrase now echoing from Duke’s early practices, and the name attached to it is Caleb Foster.
He still has time to bounce back. But with Cameron Boozer raising the bar, coaches staying silent, and teammates watching closely, Foster’s next move could determine the trajectory of his season—and possibly his Duke career.
The pressure is real. The spotlight is unforgiving. And summer just got serious.
