Duke Blue Devils guard Cayden Boozer has stepped into a larger role at a critical point in the NCAA Tournament, but how long that opportunity lasts remains uncertain.
With Caleb Foster officially listed as questionable for the Sweet 16, Boozer acknowledged that Duke’s backcourt rotation could shift depending on whether the starting point guard can return.
“All I know is that there’s an outside chance,” Boozer said of Foster’s status. “We see the work that he does to get back. He wants to finish out this season right.”
Boozer Balancing Opportunity and Uncertainty
GettyCaleb Foster of the Duke Blue Devils brings the ball up the court against Isaac McKneely.
Boozer’s expanded role has come as a direct result of Foster’s absence, with the freshman stepping into increased minutes and responsibilities in recent games.
While the opportunity has accelerated his development, it also introduces uncertainty as Duke prepares for a win-or-go-home matchup.
“I think I’m really comfortable in it,” Boozer said. “Obviously, you hate to get it the way I got it. You never want to see a teammate go down. But at the end of the day, I feel like all the work I’ve done all year has prepared me for this.”
Since Foster went down with a foot fracture earlier this month, Boozer has averaged 13.8 points and 3.2 assists over Duke’s past five games. He delivered 19 points and five assists in the NCAA Tournament opener and followed that with nine points, four rebounds and five assists in an 81-58 rout of TCU in the round of 32.
That production has helped stabilize Duke’s backcourt — even as the possibility of Foster’s return looms.
Foster’s Status Leads to a Complicated Question in Duke’s Rotation
Foster, Duke’s starting point guard, has missed five consecutive games but remains a game-time decision entering the Sweet 16.
Before his injury, he had started 30 of Duke’s first 31 games and was averaging 8.5 points, 3.6 rebounds and 2.8 assists while shooting over 40 percent from beyond the arc.
His potential return would provide a boost for Duke — but could also alter the rotation that Boozer has recently helped anchor.
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For Boozer, the focus remains on staying ready regardless of how the situation unfolds.
“Obviously, it’s a bigger opportunity, but we’re prepared for this game,” he said. “We’ve been prepared for it all year.”
Physical Test Awaits Duke in Sweet 16
Duke will face St. John’s Red Storm in a Sweet 16 matchup expected to be defined by physicality and pace.
“I think the biggest thing is just how physical they are,” Boozer said. “They pressure you full court, and on the offensive side, they play really fast and try to get as many offensive rebounds as they can.”
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Despite the challenge, Boozer said Duke’s experience throughout the season has prepared them.
“We’ve played a lot of physical teams,” he said. “It’s not a new scout for us.”
Moment Meets Opportunity
With a trip to the Elite Eight on the line, Boozer’s role — whether expanded or adjusted — could prove pivotal.
“It’s win or go home,” Boozer said. “We know tomorrow’s going to be a battle.”
For now, Boozer continues to prepare as if his opportunity will remain — even as Foster’s official status leaves the situation fluid.
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