The Memphis Grizzlies narrowly missed out on drafting AJ Dybantsa and Darryn Peterson this year, but they got arguably the next-best prospect at third: Duke power forward, Cameron Boozer. The 6’9″, 250-pound big man is now the team’s newest member, and many expect that it will start them on the path to prosperity in the West.
Boozer, 18, was considered a top contender for the first pick this year, so he’s a steal for the Grizzlies. In 38 games this season, he averaged 22.5 points, 10.2 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 1.4 steals, and 0.6 blocks per game on 55.6% shooting and 39.1% shooting from three. Known for his elite passing, consistent scoring, physical rebounding, and high basketball IQ, Boozer can do it all on the floor, and he’ll provide a major boost for his new team.
After going 25-57 in 2025-26, Memphis desperately needs a spark to revive its locker room. Just a few years ago, under Ja Morant, they were one of the teams to fear in the West, but injuries, setbacks, and personal controversies have limited their success. Now, with Morant on the trade block and Jaren Jackson Jr. in Utah, the Grizzlies are set to remake their entire identity, with Boozer at center stage.
Historically, the Grizzlies have not been a desirable landing spot, but they can change that narrative. More than anything, it starts by getting everyone on the same page, from the front office to the coaching staff. If they can agree on a working offseason plan, it will put all their players in a better position to succeed. For Cameron, with the space and time to develop his game and learn from his mistakes, he won’t be looking to rush his development, but that doesn’t mean he won’t be ready to contribute right away. In fact, if Boozer is able to play up to his potential, Memphis could surprise a lot of people next season.
“I don’t even know how to describe it honestly, man, it’s crazy,” Boozer told Lisa Salters. “It’s a joy, basically my whole life in a couple of seconds. It’s my moment, but it’s our moment as a family. I wouldn’t be here without any of these guys. It’s a great feeling to be there with them, and they’ve been there with me every step of the way.”
There’s no question that Cameron earned his place as the third overall pick this summer, but he had a notable advantage over his peers. His father, Carlos Boozer, was a two-time All-Star and 13-year NBA veteran with career averages of 16.2 points, 9.5 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game on 52.1% shooting from the field. No doubt, Carlos showed his son the ropes, and it helped the kid get an early head start on his NBA dreams.
As for what he can expect in Memphis, it’s a precarious situation right now. After Taylor Jenkins’ departure, it’s a full culture reset in the locker room, and Boozer may struggle to find his place at first. But if the Grizzlies are willing to stay patient and don’t skimp on Cameron’s playing time, it could create the perfect environment for his success. For now, both sides are just hoping for the best as they begin what could be a very long and prosperous partnership.
