The Memphis Grizzlies are entering the 2026-27 NBA season with a changed outlook. Ja Morant’s trade was undoubtedly one of the major shakeups for the franchise. However, now the young team will have rookie Cam Boozer, whom fans have a lot of expectations for.
He will be stepping into the NBA as a top-three draft pick. Speaking to reporters at Grizzlies Media Day on Monday, the 19-year-old forward shared the advice his father, 13-year NBA veteran and two-time All-Star Carlos Boozer, gave him before his rookie season.
“Just be present,” Boozer said when asked about his father’s advice.
The message is about focusing on each day rather than worrying about expectations surrounding his first NBA season, he further explained. Boozer will have plenty of attention after Memphis selected him with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.
The 6-foot-10 forward enters the NBA after one season at Duke. Boozer earned consensus National Player of the Year honors after averaging 22.5 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 4.1 assists in 38 games; he started in all of them. He shot 55.6% from the field and 39.1% from 3-point range.
Boozer is expected to have a role in Memphis’ frontcourt after Jaren Jackson Jr.’s departure.
The rookie also has a familiar basketball voice to turn to as he adjusts to the NBA. Carlos Boozer played 13 seasons in the league, made two All-Star teams, and averaged 16.2 points and 9.5 rebounds during his career.
Now, Cam will begin building his own career in Memphis. The Grizzlies open their four-game preseason schedule Monday, October 5, against the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET.