“He’s Like Paolo”: Jon Scheyer Compares Cameron Boozer to NBA All-Star

 

In the world of college basketball recruiting, a comparison from a coach is not just a compliment; it is a statement of intent. When Duke head coach Jon Scheyer recently likened five-star freshman Cameron Boozer to NBA All-Star and former Duke standout Paolo Banchero, it sent a powerful message to the college basketball world and the NBA. Scheyer’s comparison is not just about a similar playing style; it’s about a belief in Boozer’s potential to become the next great Duke forward and a future top NBA draft pick.

The Banchero Comparison: A Meaningful Parallel

The comparison to Paolo Banchero is a particularly meaningful one. Banchero, who played one season at Duke, was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft and was named the NBA Rookie of the Year. He is a modern-day power forward who combines the size and strength of a big man with the skills of a guard. He can create his own shot, pass out of the post, and hit from anywhere on the court.

Scheyer’s comparison to Banchero suggests that he sees a similar skill set in Boozer. Like Banchero, Boozer is a versatile forward who can play both inside and out. At 6-foot-9 and 235 pounds, he has the size and strength to dominate in the paint, but he also has the ball-handling skills and court vision to operate on the perimeter. He has a fluid shooting motion and a high basketball IQ that allows him to make the right play at the right time.

More Than a Scout’s Eye: A Shared DNA

The comparison goes beyond just a similar playing style. Both Banchero and Boozer entered Duke with immense expectations and the potential to be the No. 1 overall pick. Both are the sons of former professional athletes and have a polished, professional game that is well beyond their years. Scheyer, who coached Banchero in his lone season at Duke, has a unique perspective on what makes a player of Banchero’s caliber special. His confidence in Boozer, who he has compared to Banchero, is a clear indication that he believes Boozer has the same “it” factor.

The comparison also suggests that Duke’s offense will be built around Boozer in a similar way to how it was built around Banchero. Banchero was the focal point of the offense, a player who could create for himself and his teammates. Boozer has the same potential. He is a “self-creator” who can “make scoring look effortless.” He is also a “good passer with high IQ” who can initiate offense and make the right reads.

Other Comparisons: A Glimpse of the Future

While Scheyer’s comparison to Banchero is the most significant, other scouts and analysts have also weighed in on Boozer’s potential. Some have compared him to a young Kevin Love, citing his ability to score and rebound. Others have compared him to Al Horford, a high-IQ big man who can do a little bit of everything. Still others have compared him to Julius Randle, a powerful and athletic forward who can attack the basket.

Regardless of the comparison, the message is clear: Cameron Boozer is a special talent. He is a versatile, well-rounded player who has the potential to be a star in the NBA. And with Jon Scheyer’s confidence in him, the Duke community and the basketball world will be watching closely to see if he can live up to the hype and become the next great Duke forward.