Troy Henderson, a 6‑foot‑1, 180‑pound point guard from Chester, Virginia, officially committed to the Tennessee Volunteers on March 25, 2025, capping off a whirlwind recruitment that saw him de‑commit from Fordham and choose Rocky Top after an official visit . A decorated high school talent, Henderson is a two‑time Virginia High School League (VHSL) Player of the Year and a three‑time state champion—winning back‑to‑back Class 1 titles at Lancaster High School in 2023 and 2024 and helping John Marshall High School capture the Class 2 crown in 2025 . On3 rates him as a three‑star prospect and lists him among the top 100 players in the 2025 class, highlighting his playmaking, leadership, and defensive tenacity .
High School Legacy in Virginia
Henderson first made his mark at Lancaster High School, where he led the Red Devils to consecutive Class 1 VHSL state championships, scoring 30 points in the 2024 title game and earning tournament MVP honors . After three stellar seasons at Lancaster—averaging 25.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, 4.7 assists, and 3.1 steals as a junior—he transferred to Richmond’s John Marshall High School for his senior year to compete at the Class 2 level . At John Marshall, Henderson was instrumental in the Justices’ 107‑81 rout of Graham in the 2025 Class 2 state final, showcasing his ability to control tempo, distribute the ball, and score when needed . His résumé includes two VHSL Player of the Year awards and three state titles, underscoring a decorated prep career that combines individual excellence with team success .
Recruitment Journey
Originally a Fordham signee in August 2024, Henderson reopened his recruitment following Fordham’s coaching change on March 21, 2025, drawing interest from mid‑major programs like Chattanooga, VCU, and Loyola Chicago . Unranked by major services until late in his senior year, he garnered offers from high‑major programs after showcasing his skills on the AAU circuit with Team Loaded VA, where he held his own against top‑50 recruits . Tennessee first showed interest during the summer of 2024, and after missing out on other guard targets, the Vols renewed their pursuit when Henderson reopened his recruitment in March .
The Official Visit and Commitment
Henderson visited Chattanooga in early March and took an official to Knoxville on March 24, 2025, timing his trip between Tennessee’s Round of 32 and Sweet 16 NCAA Tournament games . Arriving Sunday night, he toured the new Foster Basketball Complex, met with Coach Rick Barnes, assistant Justin Gainey, and the strength staff, then worked out in front of the coaching staff and current players . Less than 24 hours later, Henderson announced his decision via social media—“officially official 🔏🍊 welcome to Rocky Top,”—joining Amari Evans and DeWayne Brown as the third member of Tennessee’s 2025 class .
Player Profile and Strengths
On the court, Henderson is known for his defensive intensity, averaging six assists, 1.5 steals, and 13.7 points per game as a senior while leading John Marshall to a 25‑2 record . He possesses a high basketball IQ, excels in transition, and has the ability to control pace, attributes Coach Barnes highlighted as ideal for Tennessee’s up‑tempo style . Henderson’s versatility allows him to guard multiple positions, and his willingness to facilitate makes him a natural floor general; he stated, “I take pride in defense. I can get my teammates involved… I’m just a dawg,” cementing his fit with the Vols’ culture .
Tennessee’s 2025 Class and Roster Impact
Henderson’s commitment boosts Tennessee’s 2025 class to three prep signees, joining four‑star wing Amari Evans and four‑star center DeWayne Brown, and elevates the class ranking into the top 40 nationally . With six seniors departing the 2024‑25 roster, the addition of Henderson provides backcourt depth, defensive tenacity, and playmaking, complementing the Vols’ transfer portal acquisitions . His arrival in Knoxville also underscores Rick Barnes’ ability to pivot quickly in recruitment, turning a late opportunity into a signature victory against programs like Seton Hall, VCU, and Loyola Chicago .
Community and NIL Opportunities
Tennessee’s vibrant fan base and prominent NIL market were key factors in Henderson’s decision. The program connected him with local partnerships that could be worth over $150 K, tapping into Knoxville’s passionate community and boosting his brand off the court . As a player who values community engagement—referring to himself as “a doer in the community”—Henderson lauded the Vols’ NIL staff for their proactive approach in aligning his values with brand opportunities .
Looking Ahead
With Henderson’s pledge, Tennessee secures a playmaker and defensive catalyst who can contribute immediately, fitting into Barnes’ rotation as early as next season . The Volunteers open their 2025‑26 campaign in November against Richmond, a fitting homecoming for Henderson to debut in front of friends and family from his Virginia roots . His integration into the program will be closely watched, as he represents both a strategic roster fill and a testament to Tennessee’s nimble recruiting approach.
As the Vols continue preparations for the upcoming season, Henderson’s commitment marks a turning point in a recruiting cycle defined by adaptability and relationship-building. His decorated high school career, elite playmaking ability, and “dawg” mentality align seamlessly with Tennessee’s ethos, giving Rocky Top reason to believe this addition could be transformative for years to come.
