Duke University showcased its resilience in the season opener against the University of Texas, overcoming a halftime deficit to secure a 75-60 victory at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte on March 5, 2024. The game pivoted dramatically after a stern halftime challenge from Duke head coach Jon Scheyer to freshman forward Cameron Boozer, who had yet to score in the first half.
Boozer, a highly regarded 6-foot-9 recruit, responded emphatically after Scheyer’s critique. He finished the contest with impressive statistics, tallying 15 points and 13 rebounds, with a remarkable 10 rebounds coming in the second half alone. His performance helped the sixth-ranked Blue Devils overcome a narrow 33-32 halftime deficit.
Reflecting on his initial struggles, Boozer stated, “I just tried to wash it off,” acknowledging that he missed all seven of his field goal attempts before the break. His second-half resurgence was pivotal for Duke, as he demonstrated an ability to adapt and dominate.
Texas head coach Sean Miller praised Boozer’s second-half performance, labeling him a “one-man wrecking crew.” He emphasized Boozer’s impressive rebounding skills, noting that achieving 12 defensive rebounds in a college game is a significant feat. “I think he’s one of the best players in the country,” Miller added. “I’d have a hard time believing there’s a freshman that is any better.”
Boozer’s impact was felt in multiple facets of the game. In addition to his scoring and rebounding, he contributed three assists, two steals, and a block. He was instrumental in shifting momentum, particularly when he executed a crucial play: receiving the ball in the low post, spinning away from his defender, and completing a layup while drawing a foul for a three-point play, which extended Duke’s lead to 14 points with five minutes left in the game.
Scheyer expressed confidence in Boozer’s abilities, highlighting the young player’s competitiveness and knack for turning the tide during games. “The ability to flip that switch in a game, I think that’s what a lot of guys struggle with,” he remarked, underscoring Boozer’s potential as a future lottery pick in the upcoming NBA draft.
Despite their initial success in containing Boozer during the first half, Miller noted the challenge of defending Duke’s dynamic style of play over the entire game. “The way they play, they put tremendous pressure on the defense,” he stated. Miller likened the experience to managing a running game in football, where the opposing team gradually wears down their adversaries.
Duke’s victory not only marks a strong start to their season but also sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting journey for Cameron Boozer, who has already drawn attention as a standout player at the collegiate level.
