Duke basketball parts ways with five-star recruit Shelton Henderson. What’s next?…
In a surprising development, five-star recruit Shelton Henderson has decommitted from Duke University, leaving the Blue Devils’ 2025 recruiting class with a significant gap to fill.
The Rise of Shelton Henderson
Henderson, a 6-foot-6 small forward from Bellaire High School in Texas, was a standout player in the 2025 recruiting class. As a junior, he averaged 21.6 points, 7.6 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 2.9 steals per game, leading his team in every major statistical category. His performance earned him the Guy V. Lewis Award as the top boys’ basketball player in the Greater Houston area.
Henderson’s commitment to Duke in November 2024 was seen as a major coup for head coach Jon Scheyer. He chose the Blue Devils over offers from Texas and Louisville, citing Duke’s strong NBA pipeline and the belief the coaching staff had in his potential.
The Decommitment
The news of Henderson’s decommitment broke on April 18, 2025. While the reasons behind his decision have not been publicly disclosed, such moves are not uncommon in the world of college basketball recruiting. Players often reassess their options as they approach the final stages of their high school careers.
What’s Next for Duke?
With Henderson’s departure, Duke’s 2025 recruiting class now consists of three top-tier prospects: the Boozer twins, Cameron and Cayden, and four-star forward Nikolas Khamenia. The Blue Devils remain in a strong position, but the loss of Henderson leaves a void in their wing position.
Duke’s coaching staff, led by Jon Scheyer, will likely turn their attention to other high-profile recruits to fill the gap. Prospects such as Nate Ament, Acaden Lewis, and Isiah Harwell have been linked to the Blue Devils in recent recruiting discussions.
Henderson’s Future
As for Henderson, the decommitment opens up a range of possibilities. Programs like the University of Miami, Kentucky, and UConn have been mentioned as potential destinations. His versatile skill set and high basketball IQ make him an attractive prospect for any program.
Conclusion
Shelton Henderson’s decision to part ways with Duke is a significant development in the college basketball recruiting landscape. While it presents challenges for the Blue Devils, it also opens up new opportunities for both Henderson and Duke to reassess their future paths. As the recruiting cycle continues, all eyes will be on how both parties navigate this unexpected turn of events.
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