Duke Basketball Target Reveals Surprising Decision.

Shelton Henderson, a 6-foot-6, 220-pound forward, emerged as one of the top recruits in the 2025 class. His combination of size, athleticism, and skill set made him a coveted prospect for many programs, including Duke. Initially, Henderson committed to the Blue Devils, a move that was celebrated by fans and analysts alike.

In March 2025, Duke assistant coach Jai Lucas departed the program. Lucas had been instrumental in Henderson’s recruitment, building a strong relationship that played a significant role in the forward’s initial commitment. Following Lucas’s departure, Henderson reopened his recruitment, leaving many to wonder about the future of his commitment to Duke.(Sporting News)

In a move that surprised many, Henderson announced his commitment to the University of Miami. The decision was influenced by his relationship with Coach Lucas, who had since taken the head coaching position at Miami. Henderson expressed confidence in Lucas’s vision for the program and his ability to develop players at the next level.(Sporting News)

This commitment is seen as a significant win for Miami, bolstering their recruiting efforts and adding a top-tier talent to their roster. For Duke, it represents a setback in their recruiting class, which had already been impacted by other recent developments.(Sporting News)

Henderson’s decommitment is part of a broader trend affecting Duke’s 2025 recruiting class. The Blue Devils also missed out on five-star recruit Nate Ament, who chose Tennessee over Duke. These losses have led to a reevaluation of Duke’s recruiting strategy and their standing among elite programs.(Sporting News)

Despite these setbacks, Duke remains a formidable force in college basketball recruiting. The program continues to attract top talent and is expected to remain competitive in the ACC and nationally.(Sporting News)

As the 2025 recruiting cycle progresses, all eyes will be on Duke and Miami to see how their rosters take shape. Henderson’s decision to join Miami adds an intriguing dynamic to the ACC, intensifying the rivalry between the two programs. For Duke, the challenge will be to adapt and continue to attract top talent, ensuring their place among the elite in college basketball.(Sporting News)