FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Karter Knox returned to Arkansas basketball this summer, injecting fresh hope into a program looking to build on last season’s Sweet 16 run.

The media got to see where the Razorbacks are right now for probably the only time this summer. Football will take center stage and probably suck up most of the oxygen for the next few weeks with SEC Football Media Days starting in Atlanta next Monday, then we’re off to the races.

For a few days, though, we got a lot to chew on with a new group of players that John Calipari hopes can carry them past the Sweet 16.

Knox, the sophomore wing, who briefly tested the NBA draft process before withdrawing, led a cast of new and returning Razorbacks during Wednesday’s open practice, offering a first glimpse at what Calipari’s team may look like for the 2025-26 season.

Knox, who averaged 8.3 points and 3.3 rebounds as a freshman, was a catalyst in Arkansas’ turnaround last year after an 0-5 start in SEC play.

His postseason surge, including a 13.7-point average in the NCAA Tournament, raised his profile and drew interest from the next level. Teammates and coaches have noted his maturity on and off the court since his return.

“It’s been good just seeing how he’s matured as a player, just when it comes to being on the court and off the court,” guard D.J. Wagner said.

Calipari said Knox arrived behind in conditioning but has caught up quickly.

“He leads the pack. He’s not afraid to get in the gym and work,” Calipari said.

Cal emphasized Knox’s willingness to embrace contact and his improved physical shape since the spring.

Senior forward Trevon Brazile also drew praise from Calipari during the session. Brazile averaged 6.8 points and 5.4 rebounds last season, finishing strong with six double-figure scoring games in Arkansas’ final seven contests.

“He’s playing the best ball since I’ve coached him,” Calipari said. “If we have one or two like that, then this thing is on.”

Brazile, who transferred to Arkansas from Springfield, Mo., just looked like the guy who’s been around awhile and has moved into a leadership role. He is expected to be a key figure in the Razorbacks’ plans this season. His ability to defend and score both inside and on the perimeter was evident during the open practice.

Newcomer Malique Ewin, a junior transfer from Florida State, showcased his versatility as both a post scorer and ball handler. The 6-foot-11 forward averaged 14.2 points and 7.6 rebounds last season for the Seminoles.

Calipari said Ewin’s skill set allows the Razorbacks to play through him, but he needs to improve his conditioning.

“He can make passes. He’s got to get in better shape. Got to have played a faster pace at times, but he’s going to learn that,” Calipari said.

Nick Pringle, a transfer from South Carolina who previously played in the Final Four with Alabama, added rebounding and inside finishing, along with the ability to defend smaller players on the perimeter. Calipari said Pringle’s on-ball defense and ability to switch in pick-and-roll situations could help.

Freshman Isaiah Sealy, a four-star recruit from Springdale, showed flashes of potential with his willingness to attack the basket and play aggressive on-ball defense. Calipari said Sealy has instincts that cannot be taught, though he still needs to add muscle and improve his anticipation.

Karim Rtail, a former professional in Europe, did not participate in practice due to a back issue. Calipari described Rtail as a perimeter shooter who may see time at power forward but is not expected to play a physical style inside.

Off the court, Calipari addressed the looming possibility of NCAA Tournament expansion. Asked for his opinion, he responded with a swift thumbs down.

“Don’t screw it up,” Calipari said. “Leave it alone. What we’ve got to get in check is the transfer rules.”

Calipari advocated for a limit of one free transfer per player, reflecting growing concern among coaches about roster instability.

The Razorbacks’ 2025-26 roster is a mix of returning contributors and high-profile transfers, a product of college basketball’s new era of player movement.

Arkansas will face key early tests, including a home matchup with Baylor, an SEC/ACC Challenge game, and a Thanksgiving trip to Chicago. These games will provide a gauge of how quickly the new-look Razorbacks can come together and compete at the highest level.

With Knox’s return, Brazile’s continued growth, and a wave of transfers and freshmen, Arkansas is positioned to contend in the SEC.