As the Cameron Crazies get ready to turn Cameron Indoor Stadium into one of the loudest buildings in college basketball once again, all eyes will be on three Duke players primed to take center stage in Tuesday night’s ACC showdown against Boston College. With Duke sitting firmly atop the conference standings and momentum building as March approaches, this game represents another opportunity for the Blue Devils to flex their depth, talent, and championship DNA.
At the heart of it all are a freshman phenom, a rapidly emerging wing, and a trusted veteran leader—three players who embody the present and future of Duke basketball.
THE FRESHMAN PHENOM WHO’S ALREADY RUNNING THE SHOW
It’s impossible to start anywhere else than Cameron Boozer. The crown jewel of Duke’s celebrated 2025 recruiting class has wasted no time proving he belongs on the sport’s biggest stage. At just 18 years old, Boozer has already established himself as Duke’s most reliable offensive weapon and one of the top Rookie of the Year candidates in the ACC.
Standing 6’9” with a powerful frame and advanced skill set, Boozer brings a polished inside-out game that belies his age. He scores efficiently in the post, steps confidently into mid-range jumpers, and has shown a growing comfort level from beyond the arc. Add in his relentless rebounding and improving playmaking, and it’s clear why opposing defenses struggle to slow him down.
Boozer’s recent performance against Virginia Tech—a 24-point outing on an ultra-efficient 9-of-12 shooting while adding eight rebounds and five assists—was yet another reminder of his versatility. He didn’t force the game. He let it come to him, punished mismatches, and made the right read time after time.
Against Boston College, expect Duke to lean on Boozer early and often. The Eagles’ frontcourt will have its hands full trying to match his physicality and motor. Whether it’s scoring on the block, crashing the offensive glass, or kicking out to shooters when double-teamed, Boozer’s presence alone changes the geometry of the floor.
What truly separates him, though, is his mindset. Duke head coach Jon Scheyer has repeatedly emphasized Boozer’s competitiveness and team-first mentality. Even after monster stat lines, Boozer is focused on what he can do better. That internal drive has quickly made him the emotional engine of the team—and when your best player plays that way, it raises the standard for everyone.
THE BREAKOUT WING DEFENSES CAN’T SOLVE
While Boozer draws much of the attention, sophomore Isaiah Evans has quietly become one of Duke’s most dangerous weapons. The 6’9” wing has taken a noticeable leap in his second season, evolving into a versatile scorer who can hurt defenses in a variety of ways.
Evans’ length, athleticism, and improved shooting touch make him a nightmare matchup. He thrives in transition, finishes above the rim, and has grown increasingly confident as a shot creator in half-court sets. When defenses collapse on Boozer or overcommit to Duke’s guards, Evans is often the one making them pay.
His 21-point performance in Duke’s January win over ranked SMU showcased just how impactful he can be when he finds his rhythm. And the numbers back up his influence—Duke is unbeaten over the past two seasons when Evans scores more than 10 points. That’s no coincidence.
Beyond scoring, Evans brings real value on the defensive end. His size allows him to guard multiple positions, disrupt passing lanes, and contest shots without fouling. Against Boston College, his ability to defend the perimeter while spacing the floor offensively will be critical. If Evans gets loose early, the Eagles could find themselves playing catch-up in a hurry.
THE STEADY VETERAN WHO KEEPS EVERYTHING TOGETHER
Every great team needs balance, and for Duke, junior guard Caleb Foster provides exactly that. One of the few upperclassmen in the rotation, Foster is the calming presence that allows Duke’s young stars to play freely.
Foster doesn’t always dominate the box score, but his impact is undeniable. He runs the offense with poise, knocks down open threes, and takes on tough defensive assignments in the backcourt. When games tighten or momentum swings, Foster is often the one making the smart play that settles everyone down.
His experience in ACC battles at Cameron Indoor gives Duke a major edge, especially in games where emotions run high. Against Boston College’s guards, Foster’s defensive tenacity and decision-making will be key in controlling tempo and limiting mistakes.
After Duke’s January win over Wake Forest, Foster emphasized growth and consistency—an approach that reflects his role perfectly. He’s the glue guy, the leader who ensures Duke stays connected on both ends of the floor.
A STATEMENT NIGHT IN THE MAKING
With Duke sitting No. 1 in the ACC and playing in front of one of college basketball’s most intimidating home crowds, Tuesday night feels like another chance to send a message. Cameron Boozer’s rising stardom, Isaiah Evans’ breakout season, and Caleb Foster’s steady leadership form a trio that’s as balanced as it is dangerous.
If all three shine under the Cameron lights, Boston College could be in for a long night—and Duke will take another confident step toward its ultimate goal: cutting down nets in March.
