Arkansas Basketball Under John Calipari: A New Era Begins
The Arkansas Razorbacks basketball team is undergoing a significant transformation under the guidance of new head coach John Calipari. With the college basketball transfer portal now closed, Calipari has managed to land the top 2024 transfer class in the nation, according to 247Sports. The Hogs also boast the No. 6 incoming freshmen class, setting the stage for an exciting 2024-25 season.
The Arkansas Razorbacks logo
Calipari’s vision for the team is clear: to take the Razorbacks back to the promised land, 30 years after their lone national title. However, the road to success won’t be easy. After a complete roster turnover, Calipari is left with just seven players slated to be part of the 2024-25 Arkansas basketball team.
The Transfer Portal: A Key to Success
The college basketball transfer portal has been a game-changer for Arkansas basketball. Calipari has utilized the portal to land top talent, including two Kentucky transfers. The Hogs are now eyeing DJ Wagner, the top combo guard still in the portal, who visited Arkansas over Mother’s Day Weekend. Wagner, formerly the No. 6 overall prospect in the Class of 2023, could be a crucial addition to the team.
![DJ Wagner](_search_image DJ Wagner basketball) DJ Wagner, a top combo guard in the transfer portal
Other targets for the Hogs include Wooga Poplar, who played last year for Miami (FL), and Coleman Hawkins, who spent last year at Illinois. Poplar averaged 13.1 points with 4.8 rebounds, while Hawkins was All-Big Ten third-team last year, ranking in the top 15 in total rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks.
“The team at HawgSports has full coverage of who is coming and who is going on the Arkansas basketball roster.” - HawgSports
Roster Departures
The Razorbacks have lost a significant amount of talent, including Tramon Mark and Khalif Battle, who were the team’s only double-digit scorers last year. Mark has committed to Texas, while Battle is off to Gonzaga. The top underclassmen from last year, C Baye Fall and Layden Blocker, have also departed, committing to Kansas State and DePaul, respectively.
![Tramon Mark](_search_image Tramon Mark basketball) Tramon Mark, a departing Razorback
The Future of Arkansas Basketball
As the 2024-25 season approaches, Arkansas basketball fans are eagerly anticipating the new era under John Calipari. With a strong recruiting class and a few key additions from the transfer portal, the Hogs are poised for a successful season. Stay tuned for the latest news and updates on the Arkansas basketball roster and recruiting targets.
![Arkansas Razorbacks basketball](_search_image Arkansas Razorbacks basketball) The Arkansas Razorbacks basketball team