Cayden Boozer Shines as Duke Eyes NCAA Championship Aspirations

The Duke Blue Devils showcased their potential for the upcoming 2024-25 NCAA basketball season during a thrilling victory over Kansas, with freshman Cayden Boozer stepping into a pivotal role. Duke, which features a roster filled with talent—each starter projected to be picked within the first 50 selections of the NBA Draft—came within 19 seconds of winning its sixth NCAA championship last season. The team’s lack of a true point guard was a significant factor in their near miss, raising questions about whether they can address this issue effectively this year.

In the second half of the game against Kansas, which ended with a score of 78-66 in favor of Duke, Boozer demonstrated the capability to fill this crucial position. Notably, no player has averaged even 5 assists per game for Duke since Tre Jones in the 2019-20 season. In fact, the last five seasons have seen frontcourt players leading the team in assists. This trend highlights the program’s struggle to establish a reliable playmaker, a situation that has persisted despite the legacy of renowned point guards like Bobby Hurley and Steve Wojciechowski.

Last season, Sion James took over the point guard duties partway through, helping Duke achieve 35 wins and finish with the most efficient offense in NCAA Division I basketball. However, his performance faltered during the Final Four against Houston, where he recorded zero assists in a crucial moment. This inconsistency underscores the need for a dedicated point guard, especially for a program known for its storied history at the position.

During the Champions Classic, Boozer entered the game with Duke trailing 27-24. His presence quickly shifted the momentum, leading the team to a 41-33 halftime advantage. He displayed poise and leadership, orchestrating plays and contributing significantly in the second half. In a standout moment, Boozer executed a precision pick-and-roll with his brother Cameron Boozer, culminating in an easy layup that showcased their on-court chemistry. Ultimately, Cayden finished the game with 7 points, 3 assists, and a plus-17 rating, while his counterpart, Caleb Foster, struggled to make an impact.

Duke’s head coach, Jon Scheyer, praised the freshmen’s performance, emphasizing their resilience under pressure. “I think they showed great toughness, and great poise, especially if you’re a freshman and this is your first time in the Garden,” Scheyer stated. “Especially down the stretch … we just showed great poise. That’s what it’s all about.”

Cayden Boozer, a five-star recruit from the 2025 class, stands out not only for his family legacy, which includes a celebrated father, Carlos Boozer, but also for his physical attributes. At 6 feet 4 inches and 208 pounds, he fits the modern mold of playmakers like Tyrese Haliburton and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. His natural ability at the point guard position means he won’t require a transition, as many players do.

As the season progresses, Duke fans will be hopeful that Boozer can stabilize the team’s playmaking and lead them toward a successful championship run. With a combination of talent and potential, he could be the key to returning the Blue Devils to their former glory in collegiate basketball.