Razorbacks Welcome Karter Knox as Calipari Invites Talents to Arkansas

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Arkansas has officially welcomed John Calipari as its new head coach for the 2024-2025 season, a move that has set the stage for a remarkable influx of talent to the Razorbacks’ basketball program.

Calipari’s arrival follows his departure from Kentucky, and it has sparked interest from numerous high school players and transfers alike, eager to play under the seasoned coach. Among the latest recruits is freshman guard Karter Knox, who made headlines by diverging from his brother’s path.

Initially committed to Kentucky, Knox opted to join the Razorbacks, marking a notable shift from the legacy his brother, Kevin Knox, established at the Wildcats. While Kevin played for Kentucky and was drafted ninth overall by the New York Knicks in the 2018 NBA Draft, Karter chose to carve his own niche in Arkansas.

“Choosing Arkansas and Coach Cal was about my own journey,” said Karter Knox, who emphasized wanting to establish his own identity in college basketball. “I followed my instincts, and I believe in what Coach Cal can do for my game.”

Karter Knox, born on May 16, 2005, in Riverview, Fla., is a 6-foot-6 small forward who honed his skills at Tampa Catholic High School before transferring to Overtime Elite Academy in Atlanta. He was ranked among the top-30 prospects nationwide, a testament to his explosive talent and potential.

During his freshman season at Arkansas, Knox contributed significantly to the team’s performance, helping the Razorbacks achieve a 22-13 regular season record. The team secured a ninth-place finish in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and earned a No. 10 seed in the upcoming 2025 NCAA Tournament.

Karter is part of a family legacy that spans multiple sports. His father, Kevin Knox Sr., played collegiate basketball at Florida State and was a national champion, later spending time in the NFL. This broad athletic background provides Knox with a robust foundation as he continues to develop his game.

The excitement surrounding Knox and Calipari’s recruitment is palpable, with fans eager to see how both will impact the Razorbacks. “Having a coach like Calipari is crucial for our program,” said Arkansas Athletic Director Hunter Yurachek. “We are thrilled to bring in top talent like Karter.”

Current Razorback players and fans alike are optimistic about the upcoming season, as Knox represents a new chapter for the program. As Karter settles into his new role, he carries the weight of family expectations on his shoulders while pushing toward his personal goals.

Meanwhile, the basketball community keeps a close eye on the Knox brothers. Karter, at 19, is poised to make his mark, while Kevin, now 25, continues to navigate his professional career across multiple teams, including the Knicks, Hawks, and Trail Blazers.

The future looks bright for both Karter Knox at Arkansas and his brother, with high expectations set for the coming seasons.