Miami freshman guard Shelton Henderson landed at No. 35 on ESPN's ranking of the top 50 impact newcomers for the 2025–26 season, a nod to both his physical maturity and the role he is expected to play under first-year head coach Jai Lucas. The ranking includes transfers, freshman and international prospects.
"Henderson is as physically ready as any freshman in the country, so Jai Lucas is likely to rely on the former Duke signee from the first game of the season. NBA scouts have frequented Coral Gables, with Henderson -- a versatile perimeter playmaker -- being the main attraction.