Top-Ranked 2026 Senior Howard Commits to Duke Basketball
Top-ranked basketball recruit Bryson Howard has made headlines by committing to Duke University. The announcement came on October 21, 2025, marking Duke’s first commitment for the 2026 recruiting class.
Bryson Howard’s Impressive Journey
The 6-foot-5 left-handed wing, hailing from a basketball lineage as the son of former NBA player Josh Howard, has made significant strides in his recruitment. Howard chose Duke over other powerhouse programs, including North Carolina and Kentucky. His official visit to Duke last month played a crucial role in his decision, as he expressed enthusiasm about his experience.
A Positive Experience at Duke
During his visit, Howard stated, “I loved my visit to Duke. I spent a lot of time with the coaches and players. We went to Coach Scheyer’s house for dinner, and it felt like home.”
Performance on the Court
Howard’s performance in the Nike EYBL circuit was instrumental in his recruitment. Playing for Pro Skills, he averaged 19.7 points and 6.0 rebounds over 21 games, while showcasing remarkable shooting skills. His 3-point shooting percentage stood at 46.2% on over five attempts per game, showcasing his ability as an outside shooter.
After previously being unranked, Howard soared to No. 28 in the rankings following the spring season, and he currently sits at No. 20 among senior prospects. His shooting precision, combined with his ability to drive and absorb contact, aligns well with Duke’s dynamic playing style. “The practice was very positive and full of energy, with a pace that was up and down,” Howard noted.
Duke’s Strong Recruiting Strategy
Duke has established a reputation for strong recruiting, securing the No. 1 class for the past two cycles. Head coach Jon Scheyer has focused on building talent through freshman recruits rather than relying heavily on portal transfers. Following Howard’s commitment, Duke is now targeting other top players, including:
- Jordan Smith (No. 2)
- Cameron Williams (No. 3)
- Austin Goosby (No. 19)
- Maximo Adams (No. 26)
Additionally, elite point guard Deron Rippey Jr. (No. 18) is visiting the campus this week, while Duke recently hosted Canadian center Maxime Meyer. There’s also interest in 2027 prospect Sayon Keita, who may reclassify to the 2026 class.
With Howard’s commitment, Duke looks to solidify its position as a powerhouse in college basketball and continues to attract top talent for its future programs.
