Basketball

Calipari’s 2026 Class Sets Arkansas Up for Future Success

A deep dive into the Razorbacks' top recruits and their recruitment journeys

Arkansas Razorbacks coach John Calipari has just secured a five‑star point guard, Davion Thompson, and the program now boasts the most talent‑laden 2026 class according to Rivals, a group that also features four additional five‑star prospects.

The commitments of Jordan Smith, Jr., JJ Andrews, Abdou Toure and Miikka Muurinen have turned the roster into a magnet for elite talent, while 4‑star center Maper Maker will redshirt this season to develop his game.

A New Era for Arkansas Basketball

Among the 2027‑28 targets, Marcus Spears, a 6‑foot‑9 power forward from Dallas, is already labeled the top player in the country, and his recruitment is being watched closely by the Razorbacks.

CJ Rosser, a power forward from Southeastern Prep, has visited Kentucky, North Carolina and Louisville, yet he continues to hear from Arkansas, keeping the conversation alive.

Point guard Beckham Black, younger brother of NBA guard Anthony Black, brings a fresh perspective, while versatile forward Paul Osaruyi, a 6‑foot‑10 athlete, has scheduled official visits to Fayetteville and Chapel Hill.

Finally, Lewis Uvwo, a 6‑foot‑10 center known for his defensive tenacity, is viewed as a potential Plan B should the staff miss out on Osaruyi.

The influx of top‑tier talent not only reshapes the Razorbacks’ on‑court prospects but also elevates the university’s national profile, drawing attention from traditional powerhouses such as Duke, LSU, SMU, Arizona, Texas, Kentucky, North Carolina, Louisville, Kansas, USC and Auburn.

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