BREAKING: Top-20 senior Bryson Howard has just announced his commitment to Duke University, marking a significant milestone for the Blue Devils as they secure their first commitment for the 2026 class. The official announcement came on Tuesday, fueling excitement among Duke fans and basketball enthusiasts alike.
Howard, son of former NBA player Josh Howard, chose the Blue Devils over fierce contenders North Carolina and Kentucky. His decision follows a successful official visit to Durham last month, where the positive atmosphere and coaching staff made a lasting impression.
“I loved my visit to Duke,” Howard told ESPN. “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.”
The 6-foot-5 left-handed wing has seen his stock soar, averaging 19.7 points and 6.0 rebounds during the Nike EYBL circuit this spring and summer. His impressive performance propelled him from unranked to No. 20 in the national rankings for the senior class. Howard’s shooting prowess, including a remarkable 46.2% accuracy from beyond the arc, highlights his potential fit within Duke’s fast-paced system.
“When I attended practice, I saw that their style of play fits my game,” Howard added. “The practice was very positive and full of energy, with a pace that was up and down. Coach Scheyer believes I will thrive in his system.”
Duke has established itself as a powerhouse in recruiting, landing the No. 1 class in each of the past two cycles. With Howard on board, the Blue Devils are actively pursuing more top-tier talent, including Jordan Smith (No. 2), Cameron Williams (No. 3), Austin Goosby (No. 19), and Maximo Adams (No. 26). This week, five-star point guard Deron Rippey Jr. (No. 18) is visiting the Blue Devils’ campus, adding to the excitement surrounding the program.
As Duke continues to build momentum, the commitment of Bryson Howard not only strengthens their 2026 recruiting efforts but also showcases the Blue Devils’ ability to attract elite talent. Expect more updates as Duke aims to further enhance its roster.
Stay tuned for the latest developments as the recruiting landscape evolves. Howard’s commitment is just the beginning of what promises to be an exhilarating journey for Duke basketball.
