Billy Richmond, the Arkansas sophomore who entered the NBA Draft conversation as a projected second‑round pick, has announced that he will stay with the Razorbacks for another season.
He averaged 11.2 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.1 steals per game last year while shooting 25 percent from three‑point range, a marked improvement over his freshman campaign.
At the NBA Draft Combine he measured 6 feet 5.75 inches with a 6‑foot‑8 wingspan, confirming his physical tools, but scouts noted that his jump shot remains a work in progress.
Richmond’s decision comes as the Razorbacks await a commitment from guard Meleek Thomas, a late‑first‑round prospect, and as the program adds two portal players — Cooper Bowser from Furman and Jeremiah Wilkinson from Georgia — alongside four freshmen: Jordan Smith, Abdou Toure, JJ Andrews and Maper Maker.
Strategic implications for Arkansas
Coach John Calipari, who has guided the team to a Sweet 16 appearance, sees Richmond’s return as a boost to both on‑court performance and recruiting momentum, especially with the program’s recent SEC All‑Defense recognition for the player.
Looking ahead to the draft
While Richmond’s draft stock may have slipped, his defensive versatility and improved shooting percentages keep him on the radar of NBA teams. The final decision on Thomas will further shape the Razorbacks’ roster for the upcoming season and could influence the perceptions of other prospects considering a college return.