Both experts concur that the top Duke basketball signee ought to drop in the rankings.

Before AJ Dybantsa reclassified from the class of 2026 to 2025 last year, Cameron Boozer, a five-star power forward from Columbus High School (Fla.), held the top position in the 247Sports Composite rankings for 2025. Boozer, who is now leading Duke’s 2025 basketball recruiting class—currently ranked No. 1 in the nation—was bumped to the No. 2 spot after Dybantsa’s reclassification and has remained there ever since. Despite this, Boozer’s impressive track record and consistent winning mentality, alongside his twin brother Cayden Boozer—also a five-star recruit and an early Duke signee—continue to solidify his status as one of the most dominant players in his class. Both brothers are poised to make an impact under Jon Scheyer at Duke next season.

However, recent conversations among national recruiting analysts suggest Boozer’s ranking could drop further. Two influential figures in the basketball recruiting landscape have indicated that the 6-foot-9, 245-pound phenom might slide to No. 3 or even No. 4 in the updated rankings. This shift aligns with ESPN’s recent assessment, which moved Boozer out of the top two spots.

Insights from the Experts

Eric Bossi, the national basketball director at 247Sports, shared his perspective on the rankings during a recent episode of the 247Sports College Basketball Show. According to Bossi, the race for the No. 1 and No. 2 spots in the 2025 class is now centered around AJ Dybantsa, a BYU signee, and Darryn Peterson, a standout player committed to Kansas. “In my opinion, it’s pretty clear that Dybantsa and Peterson have established some separation from the rest of the pack,” Bossi stated. This observation underscores the shifting dynamics within what many consider to be an exceptionally competitive recruiting cycle.

Bossi is not the only expert to express doubt about Boozer’s ability to maintain his position among the top two players. Adam Finkelstein, another respected voice in the basketball recruiting sphere, echoed a similar sentiment. He noted that the conversation surrounding Boozer’s rank has evolved and now includes other elite prospects making strong cases for higher placements.

Another analyst, Travis Branham, emphasized Peterson’s rise in particular. “Right now, Peterson is the No. 2 player in the country behind AJ Dybantsa,” Branham explained. He went on to suggest that Boozer could find himself in a tight contest for the No. 3 spot with Nate Ament, a five-star forward from Highland School (Va.) and a prime Duke basketball target.

Cameron Boozer’s Credentials

Despite these developments, Cameron Boozer’s resume remains undeniably impressive. As a versatile power forward with a polished offensive game and a commanding physical presence, he has been a dominant force on the court. Playing alongside his twin brother Cayden, Cameron has showcased an ability to lead his team to victories in high-stakes games, consistently proving his value as both a scorer and a facilitator.

Cayden Boozer, who will also join Duke in 2025, complements Cameron’s skill set with his playmaking abilities as a point guard. The Boozer twins have been instrumental in their team’s success, and their chemistry on the court is a significant factor in their individual and collective rankings. Together, they have not only captured the attention of college basketball fans but also positioned themselves as key pieces in Duke’s future lineup.

The Rise of AJ Dybantsa and Darryn Peterson

AJ Dybantsa’s decision to reclassify from 2026 to 2025 shook up the recruiting landscape, instantly propelling him to the top of the rankings. The BYU signee is widely regarded as a generational talent with a unique combination of size, athleticism, and skill. Standing at 6-foot-8, Dybantsa has drawn comparisons to some of the NBA’s most versatile forwards. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor has made him the consensus No. 1 player in the 2025 class.

Darryn Peterson, on the other hand, has steadily climbed the rankings with his impressive performances and undeniable talent. The Kansas signee is a dynamic scorer known for his smooth shooting stroke and ability to create his own shot. At 6-foot-5, Peterson possesses the athleticism and versatility to excel at the collegiate level and beyond. His rise in the rankings reflects not only his individual growth but also his ability to stand out in a highly competitive field.

Boozer’s Battle for No. 3

As Dybantsa and Peterson solidify their positions at the top, the focus shifts to Boozer’s battle for the No. 3 spot. His primary competition comes from Nate Ament, a 6-foot-8 forward known for his elite shooting and defensive versatility. Ament’s skill set and potential make him a compelling candidate for a higher ranking, especially as he continues to garner interest from top programs, including Duke.

The debate over who deserves the No. 3 spot highlights the depth and talent of the 2025 class. With multiple players making strong cases for inclusion among the elite, the rankings remain fluid and subject to change based on future performances and evaluations.

The Implications for Duke

Regardless of where Cameron Boozer ultimately lands in the rankings, his commitment to Duke represents a significant win for Jon Scheyer and his coaching staff. Along with Cayden Boozer and the other members of Duke’s top-ranked 2025 recruiting class, Cameron is expected to play a crucial role in the program’s quest for national championships. His blend of size, skill, and basketball IQ makes him a valuable asset for the Blue Devils.

Moreover, Duke’s ability to secure commitments from high-profile recruits like the Boozer twins and potentially Nate Ament underscores the program’s continued dominance on the recruiting trail. Under Scheyer’s leadership, Duke has maintained its status as a powerhouse in college basketball, consistently attracting the nation’s top talent.

Looking Ahead

As the 2025 recruiting cycle progresses, all eyes will be on the performances of Dybantsa, Peterson, Boozer, Ament, and other top prospects. Their rankings may shift based on their development, production, and impact during the upcoming high school season. For Boozer, maintaining his position among the top players will require continued excellence on the court and a commitment to refining his game.

The next round of rankings updates will provide further clarity on where each player stands in the national conversation. In the meantime, the debate over the top spots in the 2025 class serves as a testament to the depth and talent of this year’s group of recruits. For fans of college basketball, the future looks bright, with a new wave of stars set to make their mark at the collegiate level and beyond.