Shelton Henderson, a five-star small forward from Bellaire, Texas, has recently made headlines in the college basketball world by decommitting from Duke University. This decision has sent ripples through the recruiting landscape, as Henderson was previously a pivotal part of Duke’s highly ranked 2025 recruiting class. Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 220 pounds, Henderson is renowned for his athleticism, defensive prowess, and versatility on the court. His decommitment has opened the door for several top-tier programs to vie for his commitment.
Henderson’s high school career has been nothing short of impressive. Over the course of 51 games, he averaged 21 points, 7.2 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 2.9 steals, and 1.5 blocks per game. His all-around performance led his team to their first-ever Texas state title game, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. Coaches and scouts have drawn comparisons between Henderson and NBA players like Justise Winslow and Dwyane Wade, highlighting his potential to make an impact at the collegiate level and beyond.
Henderson committed to Duke in November 2024, choosing the Blue Devils over other programs such as Texas and Louisville. His decision was influenced by Duke’s strong basketball tradition and the opportunity to develop under head coach Jon Scheyer. However, recent developments have led to a change in his recruitment status. Reports indicate that Duke released Henderson from his National Letter of Intent, allowing him to reopen his recruitment process.
Several factors may have contributed to Henderson’s decision to decommit. One possibility is the depth of Duke’s roster for the upcoming season. With the addition of other top recruits and returning players, Henderson may have assessed that his immediate playing time could be limited. Additionally, changes within the coaching staff, including the departure of the assistant coach who initially recruited him, might have influenced his decision. Bleacher Report
In the wake of his decommitment, Henderson has become one of the most sought-after recruits in the 2025 class. As of April 19, 2025, he announced a list of five finalist schools: Kentucky, Texas, Texas A&M, Miami, and North Carolina. Each program brings unique strengths to the table. Kentucky, under head coach John Calipari, has a storied history of developing NBA talent and could offer Henderson significant exposure. Texas, with its strong recruiting class and proximity to Henderson’s home, presents an appealing option. Texas A&M offers a competitive program with a focus on player development. Miami, led by former Duke assistant Jai Lucas, provides a familiar coaching environment. North Carolina, a perennial powerhouse, boasts a rich basketball tradition and a commitment to player success.
The recruitment of a player of Henderson’s caliber is a significant event in college basketball. His decision will not only impact the trajectory of the chosen program but also influence the recruiting strategies of other schools. Programs will be closely monitoring Henderson’s choice, as it could set the tone for future recruiting efforts.
As of now, the timeline for Henderson’s commitment remains fluid. While some reports suggest he could announce his decision as soon as April 21, 2025, others indicate that he may take additional time to evaluate his options thoroughly. Regardless of the exact timing, Henderson’s commitment will undoubtedly be a focal point in the upcoming college basketball season.
In conclusion, Shelton Henderson’s decommitment from Duke University marks a pivotal moment in his basketball journey. His exceptional skills, combined with his potential for growth, make him a valuable asset to any program. As he navigates this next phase of his recruitment, the college basketball community eagerly anticipates his decision and the impact it will have on the sport