Five-Star Recruit Shelton Henderson Commits to Duke Basketball

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ICARO Media Group
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02/11/2024 21h38

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In a significant boost to Duke University's 2025 recruiting class, five-star wing Shelton Henderson has announced his commitment to the Blue Devils. The No. 22 player in the 2025 class, according to the 247Sports composite ranking, made his decision public on Saturday. Henderson chose Duke over other finalists, Louisville and Texas.

Henderson joins a stellar group of commits for Duke's 2025 class, including top-tier prospects Cameron Boozer (ranked No. 2 overall), Cayden Boozer (No. 21), and Nik Khamenia (No. 27). With his commitment, Duke head coach Jon Scheyer is well on his way to securing his third top-ranked recruiting class in four offseasons.

Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 220 pounds, Henderson is physically poised to make an immediate impact. His imposing frame and long arms make him a formidable presence on the court, embodying the term "man child." Although his skill set is still developing, his defensive prowess and versatility align perfectly with Scheyer’s coaching philosophy, which emphasizes defensive intensity and length.

Offensively, Henderson has shown potential as a secondary ballhandler and effective slasher. During the Peach Jam tournament in July, he demonstrated his ability to drive aggressively to the basket, attempting 32 free throws in seven games. However, his shooting remains an area for improvement, with a 50 percent free-throw conversion rate and a 29.4 percent success rate from beyond the arc.

Henderson's arrival is timely for Duke, as the team is projected to lose a significant portion of its roster after this season. Seniors Sion James and Mason Gillis will be out of eligibility, while other prominent players like Cooper Flagg, Khaman Maluach, Kon Knueppel, Caleb Foster, and Tyrese Proctor are expected to declare for the 2025 NBA Draft. This transition leaves several gaps that Henderson will be well-positioned to fill as a freshman.

Duke continues to pursue other top recruits, with notable interest in wing Nate Ament (ranked No. 4). However, Henderson’s commitment already solidifies the Blue Devils' recruiting success, promising a strong future for the team.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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