Duke University’s men’s basketball program, under the leadership of head coach Jon Scheyer, has consistently been at the forefront of college basketball recruiting. The 2025 recruiting class is no exception, with Scheyer securing commitments from several top-tier prospects, including five-star talents such as Shelton Henderson and Isaiah Evans. These additions not only bolster Duke’s roster but also signify the program’s continued dominance in the recruiting landscape.
Jon Scheyer’s Recruiting Success
Since taking over as head coach in 2022, Jon Scheyer has demonstrated an exceptional ability to attract elite talent to Durham. His recruiting prowess has been evident in the consistent influx of five-star recruits, positioning Duke among the nation’s premier programs. The 2025 class further underscores this trend, with Scheyer landing commitments from several highly sought-after prospects.
Shelton Henderson: A Versatile Wing
One of the standout commitments in the 2025 class is Shelton Henderson, a 6-foot-6, 220-pound wing from Bellaire, Texas. Henderson chose Duke over programs like Texas and Louisville, citing the opportunity to play for a coach with a proven track record and a system that emphasizes player development. During his junior season, Henderson averaged 21.6 points, 7.6 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 2.9 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game, showcasing his all-around game and potential to contribute immediately at the collegiate level. citeturn0search2
Isaiah Evans: A Scoring Dynamo
Another significant addition is Isaiah Evans, a 6-foot-7 wing from North Mecklenburg High School in North Carolina. Evans, who recently scored 62 points in a state playoff game, brings a dynamic scoring ability to the Blue Devils. His commitment to Duke was somewhat unexpected, as he did not publicly announce a list of finalists. Evans expressed admiration for Coach Scheyer’s coaching style, emphasizing the freedom given to players and the program’s rich history. With a playing style reminiscent of former Duke standout Brandon Ingram, Evans is expected to make an immediate impact in Durham. citeturn0search1
The Impact on Duke’s Roster
The additions of Henderson and Evans significantly enhance Duke’s roster for the 2025–26 season. These commitments join a class that already includes the Boozer twins—Cameron and Cayden—and Nikolas Khamenia, further solidifying Duke’s position as a national powerhouse. The combination of experienced returnees and highly touted freshmen provides Coach Scheyer with a deep and talented roster capable of competing at the highest level.
Looking Ahead
With the 2025 recruiting class nearly complete, Coach Scheyer’s focus will shift to integrating these new players into the program and preparing for the upcoming season. The blend of returning talent and incoming freshmen positions Duke for continued success in the ACC and on the national stage. As the season approaches, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how these new additions mesh with the existing roster and contribute to the team’s goals.
In conclusion, Jon Scheyer’s ability to attract and develop top-tier talent continues to be a hallmark of his tenure at Duke. The 2025 recruiting class, highlighted by the commitments of Shelton Henderson and Isaiah Evans, exemplifies the program’s sustained excellence and sets the stage for another exciting season of Blue Devil basketball.
