Cameron Boozer revealed that he sustained multiple fractures around his eye during Duke’s Elite Eight loss to UW. The freshman, who recently received the AP/Basketball Writers Association of America Player of the Year award, acknowledged he had “a few broken bones” but assured everyone that he is “okay” now with the NBA Draft approaching in about two months. The forward is projected to be among the top five picks.
Interestingly, Boozer opted not to have surgery for his injury.
“I’m just going through the healing process,” he shared. “It hurt during the game, and while I wish the outcome had been different, that’s not my main focus right now. It’s been a great year overall. This award is individual, but I wouldn’t be here without my teammates and coaches.”
Notably, he became the fifth player to earn the AP Men’s Player of the Year title.
Boozer suffered the injury in the first half of the game while trying to shoot over 7-foot-1 center Eric Leibe.
He experienced noticeable swelling around his eyes after the incident.
There are concerns that the injury’s severity could influence Boozer’s draft prospects.
Despite this, he stated that his priority is simply achieving success, no matter where he ends up in the NBA.
“I think I’m just a winner and an all-around player. I feel I impact the game in many ways,” he explained. “My competitive nature will carry over to every level. I believe any team that decides to draft me will be satisfied with their choice.”
Throughout his only season at Duke, Boozer averaged 22.5 points, 10.2 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.4 steals.
