Cameron Boozer, the Memphis Grizzlies’ third-overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, opened his professional career with an enthusiastic debut in the NBA Summer League. After a single season at Duke, the rookie stepped onto the court against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Saturday afternoon and immediately emphasized the collaborative atmosphere, telling Grind City Media, “We’ve got an unselfish group, you know I think that’s fun basketball.”
The Grizzlies took control early, building an 11-point advantage after the first quarter and expanding the lead to as many as 33 points by the end of the third. Memphis’ offense was relentless, sinking 17 three-pointers while the Thunder managed only six. The final score, 111-74, reflected a game that Memphis dictated from start to finish.
Boozer contributed 15 points, four rebounds and four assists in 24 minutes of play, a balanced line that helped anchor the team’s effort. He was joined by seven teammates who reached double figures: Olivier Maxence-Prosper topped the board with 17 points and five rebounds, Taylor Hendricks added 15 points and four rebounds, and Jahmai Mashack recorded 12 points with four assists. Cedric Coward, Javon Small and Carson Cooper each chipped in 11 points, underscoring the depth of the roster.
The performance fits into a broader narrative for Memphis. After parting ways with former stars Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. during and after the 2025-26 season, the Grizzlies are positioning Boozer as a cornerstone of a new era. The emphasis on an “unselfish group” suggests a shift toward a more collective style of play, with the rookie’s versatility and willingness to involve teammates already evident in his debut.
Looking ahead, Memphis will continue its Summer League itinerary in Utah, facing the Jazz on July 6 at 9 p.m. ET. The upcoming matchup offers another platform for Boozer to adapt to the professional game and for the coaching staff to gauge how his skill set meshes with the team’s evolving identity. If the debut is any indication, the rookie is poised to become a key piece in the Grizzlies’ rebuilding blueprint.
Overall, Boozer’s first taste of NBA competition was marked by efficient scoring, solid all-around contributions, and a clear enthusiasm for the team’s unselfish approach. While the Summer League is a small sample size, the dominant win and the breadth of contributions from the roster provide a promising glimpse of what Memphis could look like as it charts a new direction.