Hurricanes Steal Former Duke Signee

Jai Lucas completed the flip for Texas' top-ranked hooper despite multiple offers from big name programs that include the hometown and national runner-up Houston Cougars, the aforementioned Duke Blue Devils, Alabama Crimson Tide, Kansas Jayhawks, Louisville Cardinals, and a slew of other SEC programs.

It is no secret that Lucas wants his team to be defensive-minded and has constructed a roster to fit that identity. And at 6-foot-6 inches and 210 pounds, Henderson displays the versatility to "guard all three perimeter positions," says On3 Senior National Recruiting Analyst, Jamie Shaw.

With Henderson being named one of the top-10 defenders in the 2025 class, the marriage between him and Lucas seemed to be a natural fit.

Offensively, Henderson's "explosive burst," allowed him to blow by defenders with his first step and average 19.4 points per game as a senior. While the strength of his game lies in his ability to penetrate defenses, his college-ready frame allows him to finish at the rim with relative ease. He is also comfortable with the ball in his hands in the open court and can be trusted to initiate offense.

Last May 2024, Henderson was named to the 2024 Men's U18 National Team and proceeded to win gold at the FIBA U18 AmeriCup averaging 8.0 points, 4.5 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.3 steals in 18.1 minutes while logging 10+ points on three occasions.

Henderson's relationship with Lucas was a huge reason in his decision to sign with Miami, as Lucas attended the same high school and was named a McDonald's All-American in 2007.

“Shelton is someone I have known for a long time, and I am very familiar with him and his family,” Lucas said. “He has an exceptional work ethic and fearlessness on the court, but what I am most excited about is the impact he will have in our locker room and on the program as a whole.”

Henderson becomes Miami's third recruiting commit, top-ranked pledge overall, and joins a talented class that includes four transfers. He owns a four-star rating with On3 and a five-star rating with 247Sports and Rivals.