A season for the record books
Cameron Boozer, the Duke freshman who entered the 2025‑26 campaign as the consensus national player of the year, has now added another accolade: the Atlantic Coast Conference’s Anthony J. McKevlin Award as Male Athlete of the Year.
The award, presented in memory of journalists Anthony J. McKevlin and Mary Garber, recognized Boozer’s dominance across the board. He averaged 22.5 points, 10.2 rebounds and 4.1 assists per game while shooting 55.6% from the field, becoming the first sophomore or freshman since Larry Bird in 1976‑77 to post at least 20 points, 10 rebounds and four assists in a season.
Boozer’s statistical line was bolstered by a streak of 38 consecutive double‑digit scoring performances, a feat that stands as the longest of its kind by any Division I player this century. His 855 points rank second in Duke freshman history, and his 389 rebounds set a new standard for first‑year players at the school.
The Blue Devils finished the season with a 35‑3 record, capturing both the ACC regular‑season and tournament titles and advancing to the NCAA Elite Eight. Boozer’s contributions helped the team secure a perfect conference slate and positioned the program for a deep postseason run.
Beyond college, Boozer’s talent was rewarded with the third overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft by the Memphis Grizzlies. His draft position reflects not only his collegiate achievements but also the high expectations placed on him as he prepares for the professional stage.
The McKevlin Award ceremony also highlighted other standout performances. Cooper Flagg, a sophomore, captured the 2024‑25 honor, while Zion Williamson, a former Duke star, remains the program’s most recent recipient from the 2018‑19 season. In the same awards, Olivia Babcock of Pittsburgh’s women’s volleyball team earned the Mary Garber Award as the ACC’s top female athlete.
Duke’s haul of 13 ACC Athlete of the Year awards remains the most of any conference program, underscoring the Blue Devils’ sustained excellence. The recognition of Boozer adds to a legacy that includes previous winners such as Anthony J. McKevlin himself, after whom the award is named.
Looking ahead
As Boozer transitions to the NBA, analysts expect his versatile skill set to translate well to the professional game. His ability to score, rebound and facilitate aligns with the modern forward’s archetype, suggesting a promising start to his professional career.