Roster reshaping for Arkansas
Arkansas Razorbacks coach John Calipari is putting the finishing touches on his lineup for the upcoming season, still hunting for one or two interior players who can anchor the paint.
The staff has been scouting Ilia Frolov, a 6‑foot‑11, 225‑pound center from Real Madrid’s under‑22 squad, where he is posting 14 points and seven rebounds per game, and his defensive presence has drawn praise from scouts.
The Razorbacks have already fallen short on several coveted big men this offseason, including Somto Cyril and Flory Bidunga, prompting the program to broaden its search beyond domestic prospects.
Recent visits have brought Shah Hall, a 6‑foot‑11 power forward from UAB who exploded for a breakout season, to Fayetteville, while the conversation around Davion Thompson — a five‑star guard who may reclassify — remains open.
Jordan Smith, a true freshman expected to handle the ball, will likely be the primary floor general, giving the team a fresh infusion of youthful energy.
In the post, Arkansas has added Maper Maker, a former four‑star big man who will redshirt to develop, while senior forward Malique Ewin, who entered the transfer portal, is weighing a waiver that could keep him in the program.
Overall, the Razorbacks are blending freshmen with overseas talent, aiming to build depth and competitiveness as they look to return to the upper tier of college basketball.