Duke basketball has made another major move on the recruiting trail, extending a scholarship offer to 6-foot-4 small forward Bryson Howard, a talented and explosive prospect from Frisco, Texas. A member of the class of 2026, Howard is quickly climbing the national recruiting ranks, and his connection to the sport runs deep—he’s the son of Wake Forest legend and former NBA standout Josh Howard. With this offer, Duke has positioned itself as a serious player for one of the most intriguing legacies in high school basketball today.
Bryson Howard has already begun to carve out a name for himself, separate from his father’s legacy. His game is a blend of athleticism, skill, and a competitive fire that mirrors the tenacity his father brought to the court during his storied career. Josh Howard starred at Wake Forest before enjoying a productive NBA run, most notably with the Dallas Mavericks, where he earned an All-Star selection in 2007. Now, his son is blazing a trail of his own, and programs across the country are starting to take serious notice.
The offer from Duke, one of the most prestigious programs in college basketball, is a massive step in Bryson’s journey. For the Blue Devils, who are constantly seeking players that can not only compete at the highest level but also embrace the tradition of excellence that comes with donning the Duke jersey, Howard checks a lot of boxes. His frame, skillset, and basketball IQ give him the tools to thrive in a system like Duke’s, and his rapid development over the past year has made him a rising star in the 2026 class.
What makes Bryson’s rise especially compelling is how he’s managed to balance living up to the name on the back of his jersey while still crafting a style that is uniquely his. He’s not just “Josh Howard’s son”—he’s a player with his own goals, identity, and potential. His perimeter shooting has improved dramatically, and his versatility on both ends of the court allows coaches to slot him into multiple roles. He’s capable of creating his own shot, finishing through contact, and defending across several positions, traits that have become prerequisites for modern wings in the college game.
The recruitment process for Bryson is expected to intensify following Duke’s offer, as other blue bloods and top-tier programs will likely ramp up their pursuit. But there’s something special about receiving an offer from Duke, especially under the guidance of head coach Jon Scheyer. Since taking over for Mike Krzyzewski, Scheyer has kept Duke at the top of the recruiting food chain, landing elite prospects like Cooper Flagg and Sean Stewart while maintaining the program’s championship aspirations.
Scheyer and his staff have proven adept at identifying talent early and building strong relationships throughout the recruiting process. Offering a player like Bryson Howard in the early stages of his recruitment signals that they see not only the current production but the long-term ceiling. Howard’s combination of length, athleticism, and pedigree gives him one of the highest upsides in his class, and Duke is clearly betting on his trajectory continuing to soar.
There’s also a unique storyline at play here, with the ACC connection between Bryson’s father and the Duke program. Josh Howard spent four years at Wake Forest, where he earned ACC Player of the Year honors in 2003. He was known for his toughness, scoring ability, and leadership—all qualities that appear to be surfacing in his son’s game as well. If Bryson ultimately chooses to play for a conference rival of his father’s alma mater, it would add a fascinating twist to an already captivating narrative.
While college decisions are still far off for a 2026 prospect, Bryson has already shown that he’s capable of handling the spotlight. He’s performed well in elite showcases and on the grassroots circuit, proving he belongs among the nation’s top players. Scouts have raved about his length and athleticism, but just as important is his understanding of the game, something that seems to be ingrained in him after growing up around the sport at the highest levels.
Bryson’s maturity and poise are also beginning to draw attention. For a young player, he carries himself with a calm confidence that reflects his upbringing and the mentorship he’s received. He’s been around professionals. He’s seen the work ethic, the sacrifices, and the grind it takes to reach the next level. That exposure has clearly shaped his mindset. Coaches love players who are coachable, driven, and team-oriented, and early indications are that Howard possesses all of those traits in abundance.
Duke’s pitch to Bryson will likely center around the opportunity to compete against the best, in front of the brightest lights, while continuing to develop under a staff that has proven it can prepare players for the NBA. The Blue Devils also offer a platform that few programs can match. The exposure, tradition, and player development track record make Durham an ideal destination for elite prospects looking to sharpen their skills and elevate their brands.
That said, the recruiting battle for Bryson Howard is just beginning. With his stock rising and more eyes now focused on his every move, expect schools from across the country to throw their hats in the ring. From in-state programs to national powerhouses, everyone wants a shot at a player who brings elite upside and carries a legacy name that resonates throughout the basketball community.
But what may ultimately set Bryson apart isn’t just his bloodline or his athletic tools—it’s his work ethic and hunger. Those who have seen him play or train up close speak glowingly about his commitment to improvement. He’s not just content with being good—he wants to be great. That drive, more than anything, may be the reason programs like Duke are all in. They’re betting on a future star, one who’s still growing physically and mentally, but already showing the flashes of brilliance that could make him one of the defining players of his class.
As the recruiting cycle progresses, Bryson will have opportunities to take official visits, narrow down his list, and ultimately choose the school that aligns with his vision. Whether or not he ends up in Durham remains to be seen, but the Blue Devils have made their intentions clear—they believe in Bryson Howard. They see a player who can contribute to their storied tradition, a young man who brings not just skill, but the pedigree, presence, and personality that can thrive at a place like Duke.
In the ever-evolving world of college basketball recruiting, legacy names often bring with them a mix of expectation and excitement. For Bryson Howard, that legacy is not a weight but a launchpad. With Duke now in the picture, his journey is set to take another leap forward. The eyes of the basketball world will be watching as he continues to write his own story—one that might just include the Blue Devils as a key chapter.
