Duke got the first official notable offseason retention win on Thursday, as Cayden Boozer announced he will return for his sophomore season. The program revealed the news on social media with a “Year 2 loading” post.
Boozer was a key piece for Duke as a freshman, playing in all 38 games, and making 11 starts. He logged 872 minutes, averaged 22.9 minutes and 7.7 points per game, and finished the year with 113 assists, 86 rebounds and 31 steals.
There were also clear signs of growth as the season moved along as well. Boozer earned his first career start in the Dec. 31 win over Georgia Tech, scored 13 points in that game, and finished with at least three assists in seven of Duke’s final eight regular season contests. Other big performances included a 14-point outing against Western Carolina, a game high eight assists at Army West Point, and 12-point performances against SMU and Clemson.
His return gives head coach Jon Scheyer experience and size in the backcourt, and a player who showed he could organize offense, and who looked increasingly comfortable when his role expanded late in the year.
Boozer came to Duke with an elite pedigree. A former five star recruit ranked No. 23 nationally by 247Sports, he helped Christopher Columbus win four straight state championships along with the 2025 Chipotle Nationals.
