Duke loses top-tier recruit in unexpected last-second move

Duke loses top-tier recruit in unexpected last-second move image

Late Thursday night, Duke’s basketball program took a slight hit to its future plans.

The Blue Devils were informed that elite forward Shelton Henderson has chosen a different direction.

Reports from 247 say that the decision to part ways was mutual and occurred around 11:30 p.m. on Thursday.

Henderson had initially pledged to Jon Scheyer’s program back in early November.

Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 220 pounds, the powerful athlete will now seek another college team.

According to 247Sports, Henderson ranks as the No. 2 player in Texas and the fourth-best shooting guard nationwide. He’s also listed No. 21 overall.

Though his early Duke commitment let him lean further into Blue Devils support, it ultimately wasn’t enough to hold him.

Of course, this isn’t the major news Duke fans are watching for—Cooper Flagg’s NBA decision looms.

If Flagg enters the draft, losing Henderson may sting even more should he face Duke in the future.

For now, one thing was certain from Thursday night into Friday: Henderson was stepping away, and it may be a while before his next move is known.