Duke basketball’s recruiting momentum continued with a significant new offer that blends high-upside talent with a compelling legacy story. The Blue Devils have extended a scholarship offer to Bryson Howard, a dynamic four-star forward in the 2026 class and the son of Wake Forest legend and NBA veteran Josh Howard. The move not only signals Duke’s sustained focus on elite-level recruiting but also adds another twist to one of the ACC’s most storied rivalries.
Bryson Howard has been steadily climbing the recruiting charts thanks to his blend of size, versatility, and skill. At 6-foot-6, he projects as a modern-day wing who can guard multiple positions, score at all three levels, and impact the game with both energy and IQ. His ability to create off the dribble, shoot with confidence from deep, and compete on the defensive end has made him a coveted name in the 2026 cycle. Already holding offers from high-profile programs such as North Carolina, Kentucky, Kansas, and now Duke, Howard finds himself at the center of a recruiting battle that’s sure to draw national attention—not just because of his game, but because of his last name.
Josh Howard remains one of the most iconic players in Wake Forest basketball history. A consensus All-American, ACC Player of the Year, and later a first-round NBA Draft pick by the Dallas Mavericks, Josh left an enduring legacy in Winston-Salem. The idea of his son possibly suiting up for Duke—the program Wake Forest fans love to hate—adds a new dimension to the recruitment, one that blends history with the present and injects intrigue into an already intense conference landscape.
For Duke, this offer is more than symbolic. Bryson Howard fits neatly into the archetype that head coach Jon Scheyer has been targeting: long, athletic, positionless players who can stretch the floor, create mismatches, and defend across multiple positions. Under Scheyer’s leadership, Duke has transitioned into a more flexible, NBA-style system, and Howard’s game seems ready-made for that kind of structure. His feel for the game, especially at such a young age, is well beyond his years. He knows how to move without the ball, is unselfish with his passing, and brings a work ethic rooted in professional-level preparation.
The Blue Devils are also looking ahead. With Cooper Flagg likely to be a one-and-done superstar, and other young wings potentially jumping early to the NBA, reloading with high-upside talent like Howard is a critical part of Duke’s sustainability at the top. The timing of the offer—early in Howard’s recruiting cycle—also signals Duke’s intent to make him a priority, not a fallback option. The staff isn’t waiting to see how things play out; they’re making a move now.
Howard’s AAU performances have only strengthened his reputation as a rising star. Competing for Team CP3 on the Nike EYBL circuit, he’s consistently matched up against the best and often come out on top. His poise under pressure, willingness to compete, and ability to impact games even when his shot isn’t falling have all impressed college scouts and coaches alike. He’s not just a shooter, slasher, or defender—he’s a little bit of everything, which is exactly what elite programs want in the modern game.
Of course, the family connection to Wake Forest looms large. Josh Howard has remained deeply connected to the game, having served as head coach of the University of North Texas at Dallas and maintaining a strong presence in basketball circles. There’s little doubt he’ll be a guiding force in his son’s recruitment, but those close to the family say Josh is focused on what’s best for Bryson’s future, not on nostalgia or school pride. It’s clear that while the Howard name will always be linked to Wake Forest, Bryson is building a path that is uniquely his own.
That individuality may be what drew Duke’s interest even more than the name. Bryson Howard has emerged from the long shadow of his father’s legacy by developing a distinct playing style and a fierce competitive drive. He doesn’t coast on pedigree—he grinds. Whether it’s his early morning shooting routines, commitment to film study, or attention to detail on defense, Howard is crafting an identity that stands on its own merit.
Still, the symbolism of a Wake Forest legend’s son receiving a Duke offer is not lost on fans or media. In a conference known for rivalries as deep as they are passionate, this moment adds fuel to the fire. If Howard ultimately chooses Duke, it would be a recruitment remembered for years in both Durham and Winston-Salem. It would also be a bold statement from a young player determined to choose the path that best prepares him for the next level, regardless of familial ties or historical allegiances.
From Duke’s perspective, the offer also strengthens their already impressive pipeline into the state of North Carolina. Keeping elite in-state talent close to home has long been a priority for the Blue Devils, and securing a player like Howard would be another affirmation of their dominance in the region. While national recruiting remains a major part of their strategy, there’s no denying the value of planting roots locally, especially when it involves prospects with national appeal.
As the recruitment unfolds, expect Duke to be aggressive. The Blue Devils have already scheduled multiple trips to see Howard in person, and the relationship-building process is well underway. Scheyer and his staff are known for their ability to connect on a personal level with recruits and their families, and that could prove critical here. Understanding the nuances of Bryson’s background, the weight of his father’s legacy, and the importance of trust will be key factors in how this recruitment ultimately plays out.
Other schools will not go quietly. North Carolina has had eyes on Howard for a while, and a Blue Devils-Tar Heels showdown on the recruiting trail would only add more drama to an already electric rivalry. Kansas, Kentucky, and several other blue bloods are also in the mix, each offering a unique path and pitch. But Duke’s early move may provide a critical edge—not just in logistics, but in perception. Being among the first to offer sends a message: We believe in you now, not later.
Ultimately, Bryson Howard’s decision will come down to fit, vision, and opportunity. Every coach recruiting him will tout development, NIL potential, and NBA preparation, but it’s the personal connection that often makes the difference. Duke has built a brand around both excellence and brotherhood—two qualities that may resonate with Howard and his family as they evaluate what’s next.
For now, the offer is a major headline in recruiting circles. But in the broader scope, it’s also a sign of how college basketball continues to evolve. Legacy names still matter, but what matters more is how the next generation takes control of their own destiny. Bryson Howard is doing just that, and the spotlight he now occupies is only going to get brighter.
Whether he chooses Duke, follows in his father’s footsteps at Wake Forest, or carves out an entirely new chapter elsewhere, one thing is certain: Bryson Howard is not just another legacy recruit. He’s a talent in his own right, with the game, mindset, and maturity to back it up. The Blue Devils recognized that—and with their offer, they’ve put themselves squarely in the race for one of the most compelling prospects in the country.
