Top Duke Commit Shelton Henderson Flips to Miami at the Last Minute in Stunning Recruiting Twist
In a shocking development that’s sending waves through college basketball, top prospect Shelton Henderson has decommitted from Duke and announced his commitment to the University of Miami. The late flip comes just days before the official signing period, catching many insiders—and Duke fans—completely off guard.
Henderson, a 5-star forward and one of the most versatile players in the 2025 class, was considered a cornerstone of Duke’s future lineup. His ability to score at all three levels, rebound, and defend multiple positions made him a perfect fit for Jon Scheyer’s system. But Miami head coach Jim Larrañaga and his staff clearly never gave up hope.
Sources indicate that Miami made a late, full-court press to bring Henderson into the fold, pitching him on a faster track to a starring role and NBA development. The Hurricanes have been aggressively retooling their roster and targeting elite high school talent to keep pace with the ACC’s top programs. Henderson could be the centerpiece of that vision.
Duke now faces the tough task of replacing a top-tier prospect late in the cycle, while Miami gains a huge boost in both talent and recruiting momentum. Henderson’s flip also highlights the growing influence of NIL opportunities, immediate playing time, and tailored development plans in recruiting decisions.
For Miami, this could be a program-changing move. For Duke, it’s a surprising setback. Either way, Shelton Henderson’s decision will have a ripple effect on the college basketball landscape heading into the 2025 season. All eyes now turn to Coral Gables, where the Hurricanes may have just landed their next superstar.
