Cameron Boozer made his NBA Summer League debut on Friday in Las Vegas, and girlfriend Yva Lauren Cao used the occasion to post a supportive message for Memphis fans. The Grizzlies faced the Chicago Bulls at the Thomas & Mack Center, marking Boozer’s first appearance in a Grizzlies uniform after being selected third overall in the 2026 draft.
At Duke, Boozer averaged 22.5 points, 10.2 rebounds and 4.1 assists while shooting 55.6 percent from the field. Those numbers placed him among the nation’s elite frontcourt prospects and suggest a versatile scorer who can finish at the rim, rebound on both ends and facilitate from the high post.
The Grizzlies have lacked a true stretch-four who can space the floor, and Boozer’s efficiency inside the paint could help fill that void. His passing ability adds a play-making dimension rare for his size, which could free up space for guard Ja Morant and improve the team’s second-chance conversion rate.
Cao, who was present when the Grizzlies selected Boozer in the draft, posted a message urging Memphis fans to back the rookie’s work ethic and to look forward to the future of the franchise. Her public endorsement underscores the community’s desire for a fresh narrative after several disappointing seasons.
Boozer will continue in the Summer League, with a matchup against the Golden State Warriors’ rookie wing scheduled for the following day, before heading to training camp in August. The coaching staff will evaluate his defensive footwork and rebounding consistency during those sessions, and the Grizzlies will decide whether to integrate him into the regular-season rotation immediately or to allow additional development time, possibly in the G-League.
If Cao’s message resonates, it could set a tone that extends beyond social media, turning Boozer’s arrival into a cultural shift for a city that has long waited for a home-grown hero. His performance in Las Vegas will give fans a clearer picture of how Memphis plans to build around its new cornerstone.
