Grizzlies rookie Cam Boozer sets new franchise record in NBA debut vs. Jazz appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Cam Boozer did not have his shot falling in his NBA debut, but the Memphis Grizzlies rookie still found a way to make history. Boozer finished with seven points, 11 rebounds and five assists as the Grizzlies routed the Utah Jazz 123-103 in their season opener on Wednesday night at FedEx Forum.
His shooting was rough, as he went just 2-of-15 from the field, but Memphis outscored Utah by 32 points with him on the floor. According to StatMuse, that +32 mark is the highest plus-minus by any player in a season opener in Grizzlies franchise history.
It was a fitting introduction for the No. 3 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. Boozer arrived from Duke with a reputation as a polished, do-it-all forward, and even on an off shooting night, he found other ways to help. He knocked down 3-of-4 free throws and made his presence felt on the glass, with Memphis’ rebounding helping it build a 13-point halftime lead.
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The rookie had only four points at the break, but he kept finding ways to contribute without scoring.
Boozer also benefited from a historic night by a teammate. Ty Jerome exploded for 45 points on 17-of-25 shooting, adding seven rebounds and six assists, and took over in the second half with an array of floaters, three-pointers and drives to the basket. Jerami Grant and GG Jackson also provided outside shooting off the bench.
The night was also a showcase of top rookies. Utah’s Darryn Peterson, the No. 2 overall pick, made his debut as well and finished with nine points, four rebounds and three assists. Ace Bailey added 12 points, five rebounds, three assists and three blocks for the Jazz.
Keyonte George led Utah with 22 points and five assists, while Lauri Markkanen chipped in 18 points and nine rebounds, but the Jazz could not keep pace once Jerome got rolling.
For Boozer, the debut offered a glimpse of what Memphis is hoping for. The shots will come, but his rebounding and playmaking were already making an impact.
The Grizzlies will look to keep it going when they visit the Golden State Warriors on Friday.