Duke Secures Commitment from 5-Star Prospect Bryson Howard Son of Former NBA Player Josh Howard

Five-star recruit Bryson Howard, son of former NBA star Josh Howard, has committed to Duke University. This announcement came on Tuesday, marking a significant addition to Duke’s 2026 recruiting class.

Bryson Howard’s Commitment to Duke

Howard, ranked as the No. 12 player in the 2026 class by 247Sports Composite, chose Duke over strong competition from North Carolina and Kentucky. This commitment is significant as it represents Duke’s first addition for the 2026 class under head coach Jon Scheyer.

Jon Scheyer’s Recruiting Success

• Jon Scheyer has signed the nation’s No. 1 recruiting class in three of his four offseasons.
• Experts believe Howard will be a crucial component in building a strong freshman class.

Bryson Howard’s Profile

Bryson Howard stands at 6 feet 5 inches tall and weighs 188 pounds. He showcases a skill set reminiscent of his father, demonstrating explosive athleticism, particularly in driving to the basket. During the Peach Jam, a prominent grassroots event, he averaged 19.7 points and six rebounds per game.

Defensive Potential

Much like his father, Howard exhibits strong defensive skills. Josh Howard was a two-way player known for his defensive prowess, and Bryson shows similar potential as he continues to develop his body. With a noteworthy wingspan of 6 feet 11 inches, he aligns well with Scheyer’s emphasis on length in his roster.

Shooting Skills

One area of growth for Howard is his shooting ability, a crucial skill for young wing players. He shot an impressive 40.6 percent from three-point range during the Peach Jam, taking over five attempts per game. His performance in grassroots summer tournaments also showed promise, with a shooting percentage of 48.6 from deep.

Looking Ahead: Duke’s Future Targets

As Duke looks to strengthen its 2026 class, the next priority is combo guard Jordan Smith, who holds the No. 2 ranking in the same class. He shares similar attributes with Howard, including a significant wingspan and a reputation as a two-way player.

Jordan Smith also hails from Paul VI Catholic High School in Virginia, which has produced several former Duke players, creating an intriguing connection for future recruitment.