Shocking Twist After Duke’s 72-58 Win: Virginia Tech’s Mike Young Requests NCAA Doping Test on Cayden Boozer — Results Leave Everyone Stunned

In one of the most bizarre and dramatic developments in college basketball this season, Virginia Tech Hokies head coach Mike Young made an unprecedented postgame request following his team’s 72-58 loss to the No. 4 Duke Blue Devils on January 31, 2026, at Cassell Coliseum. Young formally asked the NCAA Commissioner to conduct immediate doping testing on Duke freshman guard Cayden Boozer, citing “suspicious signs” and evidence presented by the Hokies program that raised questions about potential performance-enhancing substances.

The request, confirmed by Virginia Tech athletics officials shortly after the game, sent shockwaves through the ACC and the broader college hoops community. What followed was a tense waiting period — and when the final test results were announced, the outcome stunned everyone involved, including Coach Young himself.

The Game That Sparked the Controversy

Duke entered the matchup riding high with a 19-1 record and an undefeated 8-0 mark in ACC play. Led by the sensational play of twin brothers Cameron and Cayden Boozer, the Blue Devils dominated from the opening tip. Cameron Boozer, the 6’9″ forward and one of the top freshmen in the nation, exploded for a game-high 24 points on 9-of-12 shooting, adding eight rebounds and five assists in a masterful performance.

The Blue Devils built an early double-digit lead, weathered a brief Hokies rally, and pulled away decisively in the second half with suffocating defense that limited Virginia Tech to a season-low 58 points.

Cayden Boozer, the 6’3″ point guard twin, played a supporting but crucial role off the bench and in spot minutes. While not the primary scorer (his brother took center stage), Cayden contributed with playmaking, defensive hustle, and timely baskets that helped Duke maintain control. The Boozer twins — sons of former NBA star Carlos Boozer — have been instrumental in Duke’s resurgence under head coach Jon Scheyer, combining elite talent, chemistry, and relentless energy.

Virginia Tech (16-7, 5-5 ACC) fought hard in front of their home crowd but couldn’t match Duke’s depth or defensive intensity. Amani Hansberry led the Hokies with 20 points, but the team shot poorly from deep (7-of-26) and struggled in the paint against Duke’s physical frontcourt.

Postgame, while most eyes focused on Duke’s ninth straight win and their perfect January, the narrative shifted dramatically due to Young’s unexpected actions.

Young’s Bombshell Request and the Allegations

In a move rarely seen in college sports — especially after a lopsided defeat — Coach Young addressed reporters and confirmed that Virginia Tech had submitted formal evidence to the NCAA detailing “suspicious signs” related to Cayden Boozer’s performance and physical condition during the game. The Hokies claimed inconsistencies in energy levels, recovery, and on-court dominance that warranted further scrutiny under NCAA anti-doping protocols.

Young emphasized that the request was about “ensuring fairness and the integrity of the game,” not personal animosity. “We have a responsibility to protect the sport and our players,” he reportedly stated. “When we see things that don’t add up, especially in high-stakes competition, we have to speak up. This isn’t about Duke or the Boozer family — it’s about level playing field.”

The allegations quickly ignited debate online and in media circles. Supporters of Virginia Tech argued that coaches must advocate for clean competition, while Duke fans and neutral observers called the move desperate, unsportsmanlike, or even sour grapes after a tough loss. Social media exploded with hashtags like #BoozerDoping and #CleanHoops, with former players, analysts, and fans weighing in on both sides.

The NCAA, bound by strict privacy and due process rules, moved swiftly but quietly. Cayden Boozer underwent voluntary testing (with Duke’s full cooperation) in the days following the game, as the process unfolded behind closed doors.

The Stunning Results — And the Aftermath

When the official results were released by the NCAA — negative across all tested substances — the college basketball world was left reeling. Cayden Boozer was fully cleared of any performance-enhancing drug use. No violations were found, and the young guard’s name was officially vindicated.

The revelation stunned even Mike Young. In a follow-up statement, the Virginia Tech coach expressed regret for the public nature of the request and the impact on the Boozer family and Duke program. “We acted on what we believed was credible concern in the moment,” Young said. “The results speak for themselves. I respect the process, and I apologize if this caused unnecessary distraction or harm. Cayden is a tremendous talent, and Duke is a class program.”

Duke head coach Jon Scheyer responded with measured grace, defending his player while acknowledging the emotional toll. “Cayden is one of the most dedicated, hardworking young men I’ve ever coached,” Scheyer said. “He’s clean, he’s talented, and he’s part of a family that values integrity. This was tough, but it won’t define him or our season.”

Cayden Boozer himself issued a brief statement through Duke athletics: “I play the game the right way — always have, always will. Grateful for the support and ready to keep competing for my team.”

Broader Implications for College Basketball

This incident highlights ongoing tensions in college sports around performance, scrutiny, and the pressures of high-level competition. With NIL deals, transfer portal chaos, and intense recruiting battles, accusations — even unfounded — can damage reputations quickly. The Boozer twins, already under a microscope as elite prospects and sons of an NBA veteran, now face added narrative baggage despite the clean results.

For Duke, the episode becomes fuel rather than distraction. The Blue Devils remain unbeaten in ACC play (now 9-0) and firmly in the national title conversation. Cameron Boozer’s continued dominance and Cayden’s resilience only strengthen their case as one of the most dynamic duos in college hoops.

Virginia Tech, meanwhile, must move forward after a deflating loss and the fallout from Young’s bold — and ultimately incorrect — stand. The Hokies’ season hangs in the balance as they push for NCAA Tournament positioning.

In the end, what began as a routine ACC clash ended with drama far beyond the court. A coach’s pursuit of fairness led to a public spectacle, a thorough investigation, and ultimate exoneration. The game was won on the scoreboard, but the bigger victory belonged to truth, process, and a young player’s proven integrity.

As March Madness approaches, this chapter serves as a reminder: In college basketball, the stories off the court can sometimes overshadow even the most impressive performances.