2015-16 Duke women's basketball player preview: Amber Henson

Amber Henson

• Year: Graduate Student
• Height: 6-foot-4
• Position: Forward/Center
• Last year’s statline: 4.0 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 1.3 APG

Game Breakdown: After grabbing a starting forward role late last season, Henson will be a key cog in the post for head coach Joanne P. McCallie. The veteran has battled through knee injuries over the course of her career with six knee operations. Despite nursing lower-body injuries throughout her time at Duke, Henson still runs the court with ease, making her a threat in transition. Her shooting range can create problems for opposing defenses, as she possesses the ability to make shots beyond the three-point line.

At 6-foot-4, Henson’s size and court vision gives her the ability to pass out of the high post and find open teammates both on the perimeter or in the low post for easy shots. She will take advantage of open opportunities, but does not have the instinct to take over games singlehandedly. Henson is a high IQ player and will make the smart decision and play within her game.

Role on the Team: Henson will be one of the most active defenders on the team. During the Blue-White scrimmage, Henson constantly called out screens for teammates, aiding conversation on defense. Expect Henson to play a key role in trying to get her younger teammates to talk on defense as well.

With her size and versatility, Henson will see time at both forward positions, depending on the matchups. Henson’s veteran demeanor will be important for the young Blue Devils squad, especially in times of adversity. The Tampa, Fla., native, plays well within her abilities, and her modesty rubs off on the rest of the team. Although she has had limited practice time due to her varying schedule at the Fuqua Business School, Henson will be a valuable piece for the Blue Devils this season. 

Projected Statline: 5.5 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 2.3 APG

Stay tuned for the Blue Zone's continuing coverage of Duke basketball. Players we've already previewed include Crystal Primm, Haley Gorecki, Kyra Lambert, Faith Suggs, Angela Salvadores, Erin Mathias, Lynee Belton, Azurá Stevens, Rebecca Greenwell, Kendall Cooper, Oderah Chidom and Mercedes Riggs.