Carlos Boozer

The 35th pick who became a double-double force before a dramatic exit to Utah.

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Carlos Austin Boozer Jr., born November 20, 1981, is an American former professional basketball player whose tenure with the Cleveland Cavaliers marked a specific chapter in his career before he moved to Utah. Drafted by the Cavaliers as the 35th overall pick in 2002, Boozer immediately impacted the roster, averaging 10.0 points and 7.5 rebounds in his rookie campaign. He quickly developed into a double-double machine, elevating his output to 15.5 points and 11.4 rebounds per game during his second year. His time in Cleveland was defined by this rapid statistical growth before a contentious free agency period ended his stint with the franchise.

Quick Facts

Nationality: American
Born: 20 November 1981
Birthplace: Aschaffenburg, West Germany
High school: Juneau-Douglas (Juneau, Alaska)
College: Duke (1999–2002)
Draft round: 2
Draft pick: 35
Drafted by: Cleveland Cavaliers

Lore & Background

Boozer's relationship with Cleveland turned turbulent following the 2003–04 season. The Cavaliers held an option to keep him for one year at $695,000 or let him become a restricted free agent. An understanding was reportedly reached for a six-year deal worth approximately $39 million. However, when the Cavaliers released him from his contract to make him a free agent, the Utah Jazz offered a six-year, $70 million contract that Cleveland chose not to match due to salary cap constraints. On July 30, 2004, Boozer officially signed with the Jazz. Cavs owner Gordon Gund stated he decided to trust Carlos and show respect, which he felt was not returned. Boozer denied making a firm commitment, stating, 'There was no commitment,' though he later claimed his original intent was to re-sign until learning negotiations could lead to a tampering investigation against Cleveland.

Reader's Guide

Carlos Boozer played for the Cleveland Cavaliers from 2002 to 2004. He was selected with the 35th overall pick in the 2002 NBA draft. His rookie season (2002–03) saw him average 10.0 points and 7.5 rebounds per game. In his second year (2003–04), he improved to 15.5 points and 11.4 rebounds per game. His departure occurred after the 2003–04 season when the team released him from a contract option, making him a restricted free agent. The Cavaliers did not match a six-year, $70 million offer sheet from the Utah Jazz. This led to Boozer signing with the Jazz on July 30, 2004, ending his time in Cleveland.