Shane Henderson is all about the team. 

The Mobridge-Pollock senior boys basketball player has logged multiple double-doubles for the Tigers, including a 12-point and 20-rebound performance against Sioux Valley at the Hanson Classic on Jan. 25. 

But Mobridge-Pollock coach Thomas Knudson was just as pleased with his four assists, and called the 6-foot-6 Henderson “one of the best big man passers in the state.”

“He’s been so unselfish,” Knudson said. “We could probably get him 30 points a night. But he’s willing to do what he does and make those passes to the cutters and get after the offensive rebounds.”

Against the Cossacks, Henderson banged down low with a pair of Sioux Valley big men in Tobin Squires (6-foot-7) and Carter Sapp (6-foot-6). Henderson was looking forward to the challenge. 

“I love playing against guys that are about the same height as me,” Henderson said. “Where I come from there’s not very many tall guys. When you play against a big guy and you can score against him, it proves that you are a good player and that’s what I really like about playing big, tough opponents.” 

Mobridge-Pollock's Shane Henderson is averaging 14.1 points and 12.9 rebounds per game for the Tigers. (Rodney Haas / 605 Sports)

At 6-foot-6, 220 pounds, Henderson naturally garners attention in the paint and draws multiple defenders. It only opens up scoring opportunities for teammates Shooter Frederick, Jackson Eisemann, Easton Eisemann, and Kale Knudson. 

“If I can get my other guys open shots that’s more points for the team and that will propel me to get more shots,” Henderson said. “Because I will have less guys helping off.”

In addition to his ability to pass the ball, Henderson has been a productive post player on offense and defense for the Tigers. He’s averaging 14.1 points and 12.9 rebounds per game. He’s tallied seven double-doubles in 10 games this season, while he regularly logs blocked shots each game. 

“I try to average a double-double a game,” Henderson said. “I really do pride myself on rebounds. That’s where you can get the garbage points.”

In addition to his 20-rebound game against Sioux Valley, Henderson has had 18, 16, 13 and 11 rebounds in games this season. 

“Right now with his rebounding he’s reading the ball coming off the fingertips of the shooters and he’s the first guy moving when the shot is taken,” Knudson said. “That’s why he’s got 20 rebounds and that’s why maybe he deserves to play at the next level.” 

When asked if he prides himself more on offense or defense, Henderson said he focuses on them both. 

“I try to make it equal,” Henderson said. “I love playing offense, but defense is fun too, especially when you are getting rebounds and blocks.”

Henderson’s parents — Josh and Rose — were both South Dakota State University Jackrabbits. Josh was a member of the basketball team for a couple seasons, while Rose was an all-conference volleyball player for the Jacks. She was inducted into the Jackrabbit Hall of Fame in 2020. 

Shane Henderson has aspirations to also be a college student-athlete. Henderson, who played tight end and defensive end for the Mobridge-Pollock football team, is deciding between football and basketball for next year. He went on a football visit to Iowa State University, which he said “was an experience that I will never forget.”