Every summer, a surprise name emerges from Duke’s practices — someone who wasn’t the focus of the preseason hype, yet quietly starts turning heads behind closed doors.
This year, that name is Cameron Boozer.
While most eyes have been locked on big names like Khaman Maluach, Brandon Garrison, and Isaiah Evans, it’s Boozer — the soft-spoken freshman with a Hall of Fame bloodline — who’s generating the quietest but strongest buzz inside the program.
“Every Day, His Name Came Up…”
Multiple sources close to Duke’s summer workouts have said the same thing: Cameron Boozer is steadily earning respect — not with flash, but with focus.
“He’s not the loudest guy. He’s not pounding his chest or going viral with dunks,” one assistant coach shared. “But every film session… every scrimmage… his name came up. Because he just keeps doing things right.”
Whether it’s making the extra pass, sliding over for a charge, or boxing out in a way that doesn’t show up on highlights — Boozer is doing the little things, and coaches are noticing.
Built for the Long Game
It’s easy to forget that Boozer entered college with an enormous spotlight. The son of former NBA All-Star Carlos Boozer, Cameron was once the No. 1 high school player in the country. But at Duke, he’s embraced something rare for five-star freshmen: humility.
“He’s not trying to dominate every possession. He’s trying to win every drill,” said one Duke staffer. “And that’s why he’s becoming a favorite behind the scenes.”
Under the Radar — For Now
While other freshmen might be gunning for early headlines, Boozer is content to let his game do the talking. Teammates say he’s already earned their trust as a communicator, rebounder, and tough interior presence.
“He’s going to surprise people,” said forward Brandon Garrison. “By the time the season starts, folks will realize — Cam’s the glue guy this team needs.”
A Secret Weapon?
Duke doesn’t just want stars — they want winners. And if Boozer’s development continues at this pace, he might be the piece that balances a roster full of firepower.
He may not be posting 20-point practices or making the highlight reels (yet), but don’t let the quiet fool you.
Inside Duke’s locker room, his name keeps coming up — and that’s never a bad sign.
