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By Matthew Couden
Contributing Writer
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Duke Blue Devils standout Cam Boozer became the third overall pick in Tuesday night's NBA Draft, with the struggling Memphis Grizzlies adding his services to try to regain their status as a contending team in the Western Conference.
Boozer was constantly discussed as one of the top three picks in this year's draft, and there was speculation he might become the top pick for the Washington Wizards. However, the discussion shifted to AJ Dybantsa and Darryn Peterson being the top talents available, drawing a strong response from Boozer when ESPN's Kendrick Perkins asked him about all that "noise."
"Those two guys are amazing players. Everyone knows that. For me, not being in that conversation, I don't really understand it. And I think many years down the line, people are gonna look back and say that I should've been," Boozer said in interview comments before the draft.
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He was the talk of the college basketball world this past season, as many believed Duke was on the verge of another championship, which rested on Boozer's shoulders. They made a deep run to the Elite Eight, falling to the UConn Huskies on a last-second miraculous game-winner.
More news: AJ Dybantsa Reacts to Joining Wizards as First NBA Draft Pick
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Still, Boozer's talent was on full display last season. He averaged 22.5 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game along with a 55.6% field goal percentage. His solid inside presence on both offense and defense should serve the Grizzlies well.
After his name was called at the NBA Draft, Boozer spoke with ESPN's Lisa Salters for a brief sit-down interview that also featured his famous father, Carlos Boozer, who previously starred in the league with multiple teams including the Chicago Bulls.
"I don't even know how to describe it honestly, man. ... It's my moment, but it's our moment as a family," Boozer told Salters, with his mother, CeCe Boozer, also there.
Boozer joins a squad that experienced tumultuous times over the past several seasons, due to seemingly disgruntled All-Star Ja Morant, who many believed might be traded. However, Morant is still there as of this writing.
After reaching the playoffs at the conclusion of their 2024-25 season, they struggled in this past season. A mid-season blockbuster trade sent two-time All-Star and 2024 NBA Defensive Player of the Year Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Utah Jazz, and the Grizzlies ultimately finished 25-57 with no postseason appearance.
Boozer could help turn things around as he's an impactful frontcourt star who should give them what they need on both ends of the court as they rebuild towards respectability. Time will tell whether he emerges into a superstar, or pales in comparison to one or both of the picks ahead of him.
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