The Miami Hurricanes men's basketball program has landed a significant addition to its roster with the commitment of five-star small forward Shelton Henderson. The 6-foot-6, 210-pound prospect from Bellaire High School in Houston, Texas, announced his decision on Monday, choosing Miami over other finalists including Texas, North Carolina, Kentucky, and Texas A&M.
BREAKING: Top-20 recruit Shelton Henderson, a former Duke signee, has committed to Miami, he told @On3Recruits.
— Joe Tipton (@TiptonEdits) April 21, 2025
The 6-6 small forward was recruited to Duke by former assistant Jai Lucas, who’s now the head coach at Miami. https://t.co/2n5trj8fGd pic.twitter.com/gDzFUvBBGG
Henderson, ranked No. 17 nationally in the 2025 class by the On3 Industry Ranking, had previously signed with Duke but was released from his National Letter of Intent following the departure of assistant coach Jai Lucas, who is now the head coach at Miami. Lucas is an alum of the same high school as Henderson but their shared history extends beyond the high school connection. Henderson also played for JL3 Elite, a grassroots program led by Lucas's father, John Lucas.
"It was easy to choose Miami because of Coach Jai Lucas," Henderson told On3's Joe Tipton. "He believes in me and what I can bring to the program. I just wanted to come into a program and be comfortable knowing I have a great support system, and I think Miami provides that. I can’t wait to get down there and win some games with a great group of guys."
Henderson's commitment marks a significant recruiting victory for Lucas, as he continues to reshape the Hurricanes' roster. The addition of Henderson, along with four-star shooting guard Dante Allen from Montverde Academy, positions Miami's 2025 recruiting class among the top 50 nationally.
During his senior season at Bellaire, Henderson averaged 22.3 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals, and 2 blocks per game, leading his team to its first-ever state final appearance. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute on both ends of the floor is expected to make an immediate impact for the Hurricanes.
With the commitment of Henderson, Miami continues to build momentum under Lucas's leadership, aiming turn things around and return to prominence in the ACC.