Cameron Boozer Leads Duke to Victory Over Kansas at Champions Classic
Last night at Madison Square Garden, the 2025 Champions Classic gave college basketball fans a thrilling showcase, even if one of the top freshmen, Kansas’ Darryn Peterson, was sidelined with a hamstring injury. That didn’t stop the spotlight from being stolen by Duke’s Cameron Boozer, who delivered a standout performance in his fifth college game, proving that he’s already making a huge mark on the season.
The game ended with Duke defeating Kansas 78-66, pushing the Blue Devils to a perfect 5-0 start. Boozer, the 6-foot-9 forward, recorded 18 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists in 34 minutes on the court. His stats are impressive not just for this game, but across the season—he’s averaging 21.6 points, 10.2 rebounds, 4.4 assists, 1.4 blocks, and 1.4 steals per contest. By reaching over 100 points, 50 rebounds, and 20 assists in just five games, Boozer has achieved something no ACC player has done since Craig Smith of Boston College in 2006. Even Duke’s social media couldn’t resist highlighting that milestone: Cameron Boozer has done all of this in only five games.
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Duke’s victory was built on more than just individual brilliance. The team shot nearly 50% from the field and out-rebounded Kansas by nearly 12 per game, maintaining control in the second half without ever trailing. Freshman Cayden Boozer also made his presence felt, scoring seven points in a row in the second half to help seal the win. Coach Jon Scheyer praised the poise of his young squad, emphasizing that the team still has enormous room to grow despite the strong start.
Meanwhile, Kansas continues to struggle without Peterson. Despite strong contributions from Tre White, who scored 22 points, the Jayhawks were outrebounded 41-30 and couldn’t keep pace with Duke’s balanced attack. Coach Bill Self remains hopeful but knows the team needs a healthy Peterson to reach its full potential.
Elsewhere at the Champions Classic, Michigan State demonstrated the power of continuity under Tom Izzo, dominating Kentucky 89-72. With four of five starters returning from last season, the Spartans shared the ball exceptionally well, recording 25 assists on 32 baskets, while Kentucky struggled to find consistent scoring. Izzo’s message of loyalty, teamwork, and development continues to resonate, proving that sticking with your own players can still produce high-level results in today’s transfer-driven college basketball landscape.
As the season unfolds, Duke looks poised to keep its momentum, with upcoming matchups against Niagara and Howard before traveling to face Arkansas in the CBS Sports Thanksgiving Classic. For Cameron Boozer and the Blue Devils, the Champions Classic was more than just a win—it was a statement: a talented, young team is ready to make its mark on the college basketball world.
Duke may be ranked eighth in the latest CBS Sports Top 25 And 1 rankings, but with performances like Boozer’s and a team-oriented approach, the Blue Devils are showing they’re capable of competing with anyone this season. The journey is just beginning, but last night, Madison Square Garden saw the start of something special for Duke basketball.
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