Knox returns, bolstering Razorbacks’ roster for 2025-26 season

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — As expected, Arkansas sophomore forward Karter Knox announced he is withdrawing from the NBA Draft and returning to Fayetteville.

Knox’s decision, confirmed late Monday, solidifies the core of John Calipari’s second-year roster and elevates expectations for the Razorbacks as they aim for another deep NCAA Tournament run.

A Key Retention for John Calipari

Knox, a 6-foot-6 wing and former top-30 national recruit, started 24 of 36 games in his freshman year, averaging 8.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.0 assist per game while shooting an efficient 46.2 percent from the field and 35 percent from three-point range.

After following Calipari from Kentucky to Arkansas, Knox became an increasingly vital contributor, especially during the Razorbacks’ midseason turnaround.

“I like what we have. I like where we stand right now,” Calipari said speaking at the ONE Razorback Roadshow. “We have the ability to do more if we choose and sometimes less is more.

“Like last year, we ended up playing six guys, seven guys, and all of a sudden, we’re as good as anybody in the country.

“We’ll let it play out, we’re ready for whatever.”

Knox’s Growth and Impact

Knox’s freshman campaign started slowly, but he found his rhythm when injuries forced the Razorbacks to rely heavily on their young talent.

Over the final 15 games, Knox averaged nearly 11 points, four rebounds, and two assists per game, shooting 54 percent from the field and 45 percent from beyond the arc while hitting 79 percent of his free throws.

He scored in double figures in nine of the last 12 games, including a 20-point effort in the Sweet 16 overtime loss to Texas Tech.

“We stuck together. At 0-5, we stuck together,” Knox said after the NCAA Tournament win over Kansas. “We didn’t let go of the rope and it got us here. Job’s not finished. We still have more games to go.”

His leadership was evident in the NCAA Tournament, where he scored 15 points and made several key blocks in a second-round victory over St. John’s.

Roster Outlook for 2025-26

Knox’s return ensures Arkansas retains a strong nucleus, including DJ Wagner, Trevon Brazile, and Billy Richmond III.

The Razorbacks also welcome a highly ranked recruiting class featuring five-star guards Darius Acuff Jr. and Meleek Thomas, and four-star Isaiah Sealy.

Transfers Nick Pringle (South Carolina) and Malique Ewin (Florida State) add size and experience to the frontcourt.

“Let’s retain four. Let’s bring in more freshmen,” Calipari said about his approach to roster construction:. “Let’s have two transfers, size preferably because older players are bigger, stronger.

“They can impact the game more than a young, bigger player. So, that’s where we kind of want to be.”

The only major roster question remaining is whether forward Adou Thiero will return or remain in the NBA Draft. Regardless, the Razorbacks appear poised to compete at the top of the SEC.

NBA Prospects and Family Ties

Knox, ranked No. 56 on ESPN’s Best Available list, was considered a potential second-round pick in this year’s draft but could elevate into first-round consideration with a strong sophomore season.

He is the younger brother of 2018 NBA lottery pick Kevin Knox, who played for the Golden State Warriors this past season.