Arkansas basketball has quickly made its mark in the 2025-26 season, thanks in large part to two standout freshmen guards making waves nationally. CBS College Basketball analyst Cameron Salerno ranked Razorbacks guards Darius Acuff Jr. and Meleek Thomas among the top 10 freshmen in the country, with Acuff checking in at No. 8 and Thomas climbing to No. 10 after not being ranked previously.
Acuff has made an immediate impact despite limited minutes in some games. In a recent blowout win over Jackson State, he logged just 22 minutes but still finished with a double-double: 10 points and 10 assists. Acuff has already scored at least 20 points in three of the first four games this season and currently averages 16.8 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game.
Thomas has been equally impressive, showing consistency and all-around play. He has scored at least 13 points in every game this season and posted a career-best 26 points, along with three rebounds and three assists, in a win over Winthrop. He averages 18.3 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. The No. 13 recruit in the 2025 class by 247Sports will face his next major test against No. 4 Duke on Thanksgiving. His performance has analysts impressed not only with his scoring but also his rebounding, playmaking, and defense. These are all qualities that make him comparable, statistically, to Duke freshman Cameron Boozer.
Coach Calipari has seen steady growth from his two freshman guards so far. Having worked with elite young players before, his assessment carries significant weight regarding their potential. He said, "My two freshmen, they're just getting better, they're learning how to play with other players." Developing strong team chemistry is key, reflecting Calipari’s long-standing emphasis on team basketball dating back to his Kentucky days. As the season progresses, it will be fascinating to watch their growth both individually and alongside their teammates.
Boozer, ranked No. 1 in the freshman rankings, and Thomas are the only freshmen in the NCAA averaging at least 16 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. The Thanksgiving showdown at the United Center will provide both Arkansas guards a chance to prove themselves against the nation’s elite and potentially move higher in the freshman rankings. Should Arkansas pull off an upset, expect it to hinge on the performances of Acuff and Thomas. Their next few games will likely determine how far their early-season momentum can carry them.