Karter Knox, the No. 26 recruit in the 2024 ESPN 100, who had previously decommitted from Kentucky, has now recommitted to John Calipari at Arkansas, as he revealed to ESPN on Monday. Knox expressed his excitement, stating, "Throughout my whole recruiting process, Coach Cal always said he wants to make me a pro, and I trust that he will do that for me at Arkansas." He also highlighted his great relationship with Coach Kenny Payne, noting that playing for two coaches he admires is a dream come true. Payne, the former Louisville head coach, is joining Calipari's staff as associate head coach.
Known for his aggressive scoring, Knox averaged 22.2 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 2.6 assists in 30 minutes per game in the Overtime Elite League this season. His prowess was evident as he converted 81 3-pointers in 30 games for RWE, which unfortunately lost in the decisive Game 5 of the OTE Finals to the City Reapers. Knox also boasted an impressive 19.8 points in just 24 minutes per game in the Nike EYBL last spring and summer, making him the No. 1 per-minute scorer in the league, a feat he had also achieved in 2022 (at the 16U level) and 2021 (15U).
Knox decided to reopen his recruitment after Calipari's decision to depart for Arkansas earlier this month. He has now reunited with the coach who also guided his brother, Kevin Knox, to become the No. 9 overall pick in the 2018 NBA draft after one season at Kentucky. Karter Knox's decision marks a trend among high school seniors, with several other touted players opting to leave Kentucky following Calipari's departure. There is speculation that they might all reunite in Fayetteville; five-stars Jayden Quaintance and Boogie Fland are still undecided on their future plans, along with four-stars Billy Richmond and Somto Cyril.
Arkansas will see a significant overhaul, as all 13 of last season's scholarship players have either exhausted their eligibility, entered the transfer portal, or are departing for the NBA draft, leaving Calipari with a fresh slate. Kentucky freshman Zvonimir Ivisic became Arkansas' first commitment via the transfer portal, adding to the anticipation surrounding the team's upcoming season.
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