Shocking Family Health Crisis Hits Boozer Twins: Carlos Boozer and Ex-Wife CeCe Reportedly Battling Serious Illness – Duke Blue Devils Offer Support

In a heartbreaking turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the college basketball world, rising Duke Blue Devils stars Cameron Boozer and his twin brother Cayden Boozer are facing a profound personal tragedy. Just moments ago, reports surfaced that the Duke basketball program issued a deeply emotional message of condolences to the Boozer family following devastating news about their parents’ health. Cameron Boozer himself has reportedly confirmed the somber details, leaving fans, teammates, and the entire Duke community in mourning.

The Boozer twins, widely regarded as two of the most talented freshmen in the 2025-26 NCAA season, have been lights-out performers for the Blue Devils. Cameron, a towering 6-foot-9 power forward with elite rebounding and scoring instincts, has drawn early comparisons to his legendary father, former Duke standout and two-time NBA All-Star Carlos Boozer. Cayden, the slick point guard counterpart, brings playmaking wizardry and sharpshooting to Jon Scheyer’s squad. Together, the “Boozer twins” embody Duke’s storied “Brotherhood” culture – both on and off the court.

But behind their on-court success lies a family story that has always inspired. Carlos Boozer and his ex-wife CeCe Boozer (née CeCe Blackwell) built a legacy of resilience. The couple, who met during Carlos’s time at Duke and married in 2003, welcomed three sons: oldest Carmani Boozer, followed by the twins Cameron and Cayden in 2007. Their journey wasn’t without immense challenges. Carmani was diagnosed with sickle cell anemia shortly after birth – a life-threatening blood disorder that causes severe pain, organ damage, and potentially fatal complications.

Desperate for a cure, Carlos and CeCe made the courageous decision to pursue in-vitro fertilization (IVF) with preimplantation genetic diagnosis. The goal? To conceive a child who was both free of the sickle cell gene and a perfect bone marrow match for Carmani. In July 2007, the twins were born – and their umbilical cord blood provided the stem cells that ultimately saved their older brother’s life through a successful transplant. This remarkable act of love turned the Boozer family into symbols of hope for families battling sickle cell disease worldwide.

Carmani has thrived ever since, living a full life thanks to his brothers’ selfless “assist” long before they ever stepped on a basketball court.

Now, as the twins navigate their freshman year at Duke – where their father helped win a national championship in 2001 – the family faces another medical storm. Sources indicate that both Carlos Boozer and CeCe Boozer are reportedly seriously ill, with the condition described as severe and requiring immediate medical attention. While specifics remain private out of respect for the family’s wishes, the news has hit hard. Duke Blue Devils issued a statement expressing “deepest condolences” to Cameron, Cayden, and the entire Boozer family amid this “devastating” development.

Cameron’s confirmation adds an extra layer of heartbreak, showing the young stars are grappling with unimaginable worry while balancing high-stakes college hoops.

The basketball community has rallied quickly. Duke’s program, known for its tight-knit culture under Coach Scheyer, has emphasized support for the twins during this difficult period. Teammates, alumni, and fans have flooded social media with prayers, messages of strength, and reminders of the Boozer family’s unbreakable bond. “The Brotherhood isn’t just a slogan – it’s real,” one Duke insider shared. “Cameron and Cayden are leaning on their team, and the team is leaning right back.”

Carlos Boozer’s journey from Juneau, Alaska, to Duke glory, to a 13-year NBA career (including stints with the Utah Jazz, Chicago Bulls, and Los Angeles Lakers) has always been defined by perseverance. He overcame doubts after being a second-round pick in 2002 to earn All-Star honors twice and an Olympic gold medal. Off the court, his advocacy for sickle cell awareness through initiatives like Boozer’s Buddies has touched countless lives.

CeCe Boozer, a strong pillar in the family, has been equally inspirational. After the couple’s divorce in 2015, she has focused on business ventures and raising their sons with grace. Her role in researching treatments and pushing for the twins’ conception remains one of the most poignant chapters in modern sports family stories.

As of January 19, 2026, no official updates on Carlos or CeCe’s conditions have been released, and the family has asked for privacy as they navigate treatment. The Boozer twins are expected to continue playing – channeling their emotions into every rebound, assist, and defensive stand – but their minds are undoubtedly with their parents.

This crisis serves as a stark reminder that even the brightest stars face unseen battles. The Boozer family’s history of turning adversity into triumph gives hope that they will weather this storm together. For now, the Duke Blue Devils – and basketball fans everywhere – stand united in support.

Prayers for Carlos Boozer, CeCe Boozer, Cameron, Cayden, Carmani, and the entire family. May strength, healing, and peace surround them during this incredibly tough time. Duke Nation – and beyond – has your back. 💙