As the Memphis Grizzlies prepare for the NBA season, all eyes will be on rookie forward Cam Boozer.
The No. 3 pick in the 2026 NBA draft is one of many Duke players who were selected that high in the last decade, allowing Boozer to join some elite company. As Boozer played in just his second preseason game on Wednesday night, one of his fellow Blue Devils took note of the rookie’s progress.
Orlando Magic star Paolo Banchero spoke on Friday about what he saw from Boozer in the preseason game, and it’s no surprise that Banchero had praise for the forward. Banchero was once in Boozer’s shoes entering the league, giving him a unique perspective of what Boozer is going through.
Here’s what Paolo Banchero said about Cam Boozer’s play so far.
Paolo Banchero praises Cam Boozer
Cam Boozer played the second preseason game of his career on Wednesday night against the Orlando Magic, facing off against Paolo Banchero for the first time. While the two have never been teammates, they do have the connection of both attending Duke for a season in college.
Therefore, Banchero was asked what he thought of Boozer early on, and the star forward said that he likes what he sees so far.
“He looked pro ready, definitely composed,” Banchero said. “Thought he just played very good basketball, played within himself, took the right shots. Yeah, I think Memphis has something to be excited about with him.”
Paolo Banchero on facing Rookie Cameron Boozer: “He looked pro ready, definitely composed. Thought he just played very good basketball, played within himself, took the right shots. Yeah, I think Memphis has something to be excited about with him.” https://t.co/jblRgo261G
— Ryan Kaminski NBA (@beyondtheRK) October 9, 2026
Boozer produced 16 points and six rebounds in 22 minutes for Memphis on Wednesday night, shooting an efficient 4-7 from the field and 2-3 from three. He was, however, also a -13 on the night, along with two of other teammates in the Grizzlies’ starting lineup.
STREAM: Watch Grizzlies games during 2026-27 season with DAZN
Banchero and Boozer were both taken in the top three of the NBA draft and are just two of several Duke players in the NBA who were drafted that high. Cooper Flagg, Zion Williamson, RJ Barrett, Jayson Tatum and Brandon Ingram are other former Blue Devils who took on the responsibility of being a high draft pick.
Those Duke players have a connection that runs through the NBA season, so it wouldn’t be a surprise for Boozer to get advice or praise from other former Duke players along the way.
