There is a growing likelihood that the Razorbacks will attract multiple transfers from the Wildcats.
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — As the exodus from Kentucky continues, a noticeable trend is emerging: Arkansas is increasingly becoming the preferred destination. Recent speculation suggests that transfer forward Jordan Burks is poised to join Arkansas, as predicted by Chris Fisher of CatsPause, according to a 247sports crystal ball prediction.
Burks, a 3-star prospect in the 2023 recruiting cycle, had a modest freshman season with the Wildcats, featuring in 20 games. During this time, he averaged two points and two rebounds in seven minutes per game.
His standout performance occurred on February 6 against Vanderbilt at Memorial Coliseum, where he posted season-best stats of 13 points and five rebounds within a 15-minute span. However, Burks experienced a decline in his role, participating in only four of the team’s final ten games, totaling 20 minutes on the court.
With Burks’ departure, the Wildcats find themselves without any returning players from the previous season on the roster for the upcoming year.
Kentucky becomes the second SEC program, after Arkansas, to undergo significant roster changes this offseason. Another former Kentucky player, Adou Thiero, is reportedly considering five schools: Arkansas, North Carolina, Indiana, Pitt, and potentially returning to Kentucky. Thiero, who averaged seven points and five rebounds per game as a sophomore this season, notably improved his shooting accuracy to 49% from the field and maintained an 80% free throw success rate. His standout performance occurred against Kansas on November 14, where he achieved career highs of 16 points and 13 rebounds.
Thiero currently ranks as the No. 22 prospect, No. 4 small forward, and No. 10 uncommitted transfer in the portal according to 247sports.
As of now, Arkansas has only one confirmed scholarship player for the upcoming season, having secured former Kentucky big man Zvonimir Ivisic. Since the arrival of John Calipari from Kentucky, strong rumors have circulated suggesting that several players from last season’s roster, as well as signees, would follow him to Fayetteville. However, only one player remains committed to the Wildcats since Mark Pope officially assumed the head coaching position last Sunday.
