In a heartbreaking moment that has left the college basketball world and fans reeling, Duke Blue Devils freshman standout Cameron Boozer shared an emotional update on his mother’s condition just 30 minutes ago, sending waves of sorrow through social media and the sports community. The 6-foot-9 power forward, already turning heads in his rookie season with the Blue Devils, posted a raw, tearful message revealing that his mother, CeCe Boozer, is facing serious health challenges.
The Duke men’s basketball program quickly responded with official condolences, wrapping the Boozer family in support during what is undoubtedly one of the toughest periods in their lives.
Cameron, the son of former NBA All-Star Carlos Boozer and CeCe (née Cindy “CeCe” Blackwell), took to his platforms to open up about the situation. In a voice choked with emotion, he described the pain of seeing his mother struggle, thanking supporters for their prayers while asking for continued strength. “My mom has always been my rock—she sacrificed everything for me, my brothers, and our family. Right now, she’s fighting, and it’s the hardest thing I’ve ever had to watch,” he reportedly shared, his words resonating deeply with followers who have followed the Boozer family’s inspiring journey for years.
The Duke Blue Devils issued a statement shortly after, expressing profound sadness and unwavering solidarity: “The entire Duke men’s basketball family is heartbroken to learn of the challenges facing CeCe Boozer. We send our deepest condolences, love, and support to Cameron, Cayden, Carmani, Carlos, and the entire Boozer family during this difficult time. Cameron remains surrounded by his teammates, coaches, and the Duke community as he navigates this personal hardship. Please keep the Boozer family in your thoughts and prayers.”
CeCe Boozer has long been the quiet force behind one of basketball’s most touching family stories. A Duke alum herself, she met Carlos Boozer on campus, where he helped lead the Blue Devils to the 2001 national championship under Coach Mike Krzyzewski. The couple welcomed their first son, Carmani, in 2006, only to face devastation when he was diagnosed with sickle cell disease before birth—a blood disorder that can cause excruciating pain, strokes, and life-threatening complications.
Refusing to accept a lifetime of management for Carmani’s condition, CeCe and Carlos pursued aggressive research into bone marrow transplants as a potential cure. Doctors advised that a sibling match offered the best hope, leading the couple to use in vitro fertilization (IVF) to conceive twins who could serve as donors while being free of the disease. In July 2007, CeCe gave birth to fraternal twins Cameron and Cayden Boozer in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Both proved perfect matches, and through a successful transplant involving chemotherapy and donor cells from the twins, Carmani was cured—transforming what could have been tragedy into a miracle of modern medicine and maternal determination.
This extraordinary chapter was chronicled in ESPN’s E:60 special, where CeCe openly discussed the emotional weight of the decision: the fear of having children “for the wrong reason,” the faith that guided her, and the overwhelming joy when the procedure worked. The story highlighted CeCe as a fierce advocate, co-founding Boozer’s Buddies to support families battling sickle cell and similar illnesses. Even after her divorce from Carlos in 2015, she remained a pillar of strength, raising her sons with grace, emphasizing character, academics, and resilience alongside their basketball pursuits.
Now, as Cameron and Cayden—both five-star recruits and now freshmen at Duke—carry the family legacy on the court, the focus has shifted to CeCe’s well-being. Cameron, wearing No. 12 for the Blue Devils, has emerged as one of the top freshmen in the nation this 2025-26 season, delivering efficient scoring, rebounding dominance, and defensive versatility that scouts project as a high lottery pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. His twin Cayden complements him with dynamic energy, forming a formidable brotherly duo under head coach Jon Scheyer. Yet, basketball takes a backseat as the family rallies around CeCe.
Fans flooded social media with messages of love, sharing stories of how CeCe’s sacrifices inspired them. Many recalled her recent appearances supporting the twins at games, her proud posts celebrating their milestones, and her unyielding positivity. “CeCe Boozer is a warrior—praying for healing and strength for her and the whole family,” one viral comment read. Others noted the irony and pain: the woman who once orchestrated a life-saving medical feat now needing prayers for her own health.
The Boozer brothers have always credited their mother for keeping them grounded. Cameron, described by CeCe as “stoic and serious” with a laser-focused vision, has channeled that intensity into his play, but his emotional update revealed a vulnerable side rarely seen. Teammates, including fellow stars like Cooper Flagg, have surrounded him with support, turning the Cameron Indoor Stadium into a haven during this storm.
As Duke continues its strong ACC campaign—currently atop the conference with an impressive record—the program has made it clear that family comes first. Practices, games, and media obligations will continue, but the Blue Devils’ thoughts remain with the Boozer family. CeCe’s legacy of sacrifice, love, and advocacy endures, reminding everyone that behind every great athlete is often an even greater mother.
The college basketball community stands united in prayer for CeCe Boozer’s recovery and for Cameron as he balances elite performance with profound personal concern. In moments like these, the game reveals its humanity—wins and losses fade, but family and resilience shine brightest. Duke Nation, and basketball fans everywhere, send heartfelt strength to the Boozers. Stay strong.
