Big news on the recruiting front! Kentucky has made the cut for five-star recruit Shelton Henderson, who recently decommitted from Duke. The 6-foot-6 wing has listed Kentucky among his top five choices, alongside Miami, Texas, Texas A&M, and North Carolina. Henderson, an elite talent with incredible physical tools and a growing skill set, is set to make his decision on Monday, and all eyes are on the Wildcats.

Henderson’s Finalists:

A physically dominant force on the wing
Shelton Henderson is one of the most physically imposing players in the 2025 class, particularly on the perimeter. With a wingspan that stretches beyond 6-foot-10, Henderson has the ideal size and athleticism to thrive at the next level. Standing around 6-foot-6, he’s a force to be reckoned with both on offense and defense. His combination of power, length, and agility makes him a nightmare for opponents, and his versatility is one of the key reasons why so many top programs are vying for his services.

According to Adam Finkelstein, Director of Scouting for 247sports, Henderson’s attacking style of play sets him apart. He excels at getting downhill and absorbing contact as he drives to the rim, showing the ability to maintain his balance even in high-pressure situations. As he continues to develop, his game has slowed down significantly, allowing him to read defenses more efficiently and showcase his growing passing ability. Though his shooting is still a work in progress, his touch has improved over the past year, and his high release has become more fluid, making him a threat from the perimeter.

Defense and versatility: Henderson’s a game-changer
What makes Henderson truly special, however, is his two-way versatility. On the defensive end, his length and motor allow him to guard multiple positions effectively. Whether he’s defending bigger players in the post or smaller guards on the perimeter, Henderson has the ability to make a significant impact. He’s a strong perimeter rebounder, often getting his hands on loose balls and showing an uncanny ability to disrupt offensive plays. His defensive prowess, combined with his athleticism, makes him one of the most complete players in the 2025 class.

The Miami dactor: Could Jai Lucas influence Henderson’s decision?
While Kentucky is firmly in the mix, sources are saying that Miami is currently the favorite to land Henderson. A major reason behind this is the hiring of Jai Lucas as the new head coach at Miami. Lucas, who was previously an assistant coach at Duke, played a significant role in Henderson’s recruitment during his time with the Blue Devils. It makes sense that Henderson might follow Lucas to Miami, where the two could continue building on their strong relationship.