Top 20 Prospect Howard Commits to Duke for 2026

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Top 20 Prospect Howard Commits to Duke for 2026

Top-20 senior Bryson Howard has officially committed to Duke for the 2026 class. His decision strengthens Jon Scheyer’s recruiting efforts as this marks the Blue Devils’ first commitment in this talent pool. Howard, the son of former NBA player Josh Howard, chose Duke over prestigious programs like North Carolina and Kentucky.

Bryson Howard’s Recruitment Journey

Howard’s recruitment was highly competitive. His successful official visit to Duke last month set a positive tone. “I loved my visit to Duke,” said Howard. “It felt like home.” He was impressed by the coaching staff and his interactions with players.

Impressive Performance on the Court

Standing at 6-foot-5, Howard is a left-handed wing who has made significant strides in his performance. Over the spring and summer, he played for Pro Skills on the Nike EYBL circuit. His statistics reflect his talent, averaging 19.7 points and 6.0 rebounds in 21 games. He excelled with a 46.2% shooting rate from beyond the arc, making him one of the biggest rising stars.

  • Current Ranking: No. 20 in the senior class
  • Previous Ranking: Unranked before spring
  • Shooting Percentage: 46.2% from three-point range

Howard’s skill set aligns perfectly with Duke’s style of play. His shot-making ability, combined with his strong mechanics, showcases his versatility. Whether it’s catch-and-shoot, off the dribble, or driving to the basket, he has demonstrated consistent scoring capability.

Duke’s Recruiting Strategy

Duke has been successful in landing top-tier recruits, having secured the No. 1 recruiting class in the past two cycles. Coach Jon Scheyer opts for developing freshman talent instead of relying heavily on the transfer portal. After Howard’s commitment, Duke continues to pursue several high-ranked prospects:

  • Jordan Smith (No. 2)
  • Cameron Williams (No. 3)
  • Austin Goosby (No. 19)
  • Maximo Adams (No. 26)

Additionally, five-star point guard Deron Rippey Jr. (No. 18) is visiting Duke this week. Recently, the team also hosted Canadian center Maxime Meyer and elite 2027 prospect Sayon Keita, who may reclassify to 2026.