FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Karter Knox didn’t really surprise anyone with his announcement Monday he’s going to back for a second season at Arkansas.
It was a significant boost for the Razorbacks with his return to Fayetteville.
He has withdrawn from the NBA Draft and reaffirmed his commitment to John Calipari’s program. Knox’s decision solidifies Arkansas’ core.
Key Decision for Player and Program
Knox, a 6-foot-6 wing, was projected as a potential second-round pick in the 2025 NBA Draft after a freshman season marked by steady improvement and clutch performances.
Ranked No. 56 on ESPN’s Best Available list and No. 25 in the 2024 recruiting class by 247Sports, Knox tested the NBA waters before opting to return for another year of development under Calipari.
“Job’s not finished. We still have more games to go,” Knox said after Arkansas’ NCAA Tournament victory over Kansas.
Impactful Freshman Campaign
As a freshman, Knox started 24 of 36 games, averaging 8.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game while shooting 46.2 percent from the field and 35% from three-point range.
His role expanded significantly after teammate Boogie Fland was sidelined with a thumb injury, giving Knox the opportunity to shine in high-pressure moments.
Over the final 15 games, Knox elevated his game, averaging nearly 11 points, four rebounds, and two assists, while shooting an efficient 54 percent from the field and 45 percent from beyond the arc.
He was instrumental in Arkansas’ late-season surge, helping the team recover from a difficult start in SEC play.
March Madness Breakout
Despite injuries and a challenging schedule, Arkansas finished 20-13 and earned a No. 10 seed in the West regional.
Knox had six points in the first-round upset over Kansas, then delivered a standout 15-point, six-rebound, four-block performance against St. John’s in the second round, helping the Razorbacks reach the Sweet 16.
In the Sweet 16, Knox capped his freshman year with a 20-point effort, hitting all four of his three-point attempts in a narrow overtime loss to Texas Tech.
His postseason performances showcased his potential as a future NBA prospect and a leader for Arkansas.
Calipari’s Confidence and Roster Outlook
John Calipari, entering his second year at Arkansas, expressed confidence in his roster’s depth and versatility.
“We have the ability to do more if we choose and sometimes less is more,” Calipari said at the ONE Razorback Roadshow in Little Rock. “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 return, along with key players like Trevon Brazile, DJ Wagner, and Billy Richmond III, forms a strong foundation.
Arkansas also welcomes a top-10 recruiting class, including five-star prospects Meleek Thomas and Darius Acuff Jr., and transfer additions Nick Pringle and Malique Ewin.
