The Arkansas Razorbacks have landed a major in-state victory on the recruiting trail, as five-star forward JJ Andrews, the top player in Arkansas and one of the nation’s premier prospects, has officially committed to the Razorbacks.
Andrews, a standout from Little Rock Christian Academy, is ranked as the No. 1 player in Arkansas and the No. 4 small forward nationally, according to 247Sports. Standing 6-foot-7 in shoes with an impressive 7-foot wingspan, Andrews brings a rare blend of size, strength, and athleticism that makes him one of the most physically gifted wings in the 2026 class.
Known for his aggressive, downhill style, Andrews attacks the rim with force and finishes through contact with ease. His frame and explosiveness make him a matchup nightmare in transition and around the basket. While his game is currently built more on athleticism than polish, he’s shown promise as a perimeter shooter, connecting on 36% from three and 72% from the free-throw line but this being a foundation he’ll continue to build upon at the next level.
Defensively, Andrews has the tools to become a lockdown presence on the perimeter. His combination of length, lateral quickness, and physicality allows him to guard multiple positions 1 through 4, while his instincts have already translated into a strong 1.8 steals per game average in high school. With continued development, he projects as an elite two-way player at the collegiate level.
Andrews’ résumé speaks for itself: he’s a multiple-time state champion and has already amassed 2,201 career points through his junior season, averaging 28.5 points, 10.1 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 2 blocks per game in 2024–25. His accolades include several player of the year honors and recognition as one of the nation’s most complete forwards.
For head coach John Calipari and his staff, this commitment represents another major recruiting win since Calipari’s arrival in Fayetteville. Andrews’ decision reinforces the Razorbacks’ growing reputation as a destination for elite talent and underscores the trust top prospects have in Calipari’s proven track record of developing NBA-ready players.
While Razorback fans are eager to see Andrews suit up in the red and white, his talent level suggests he could be a one-and-done prospect destined for the NBA. Regardless of how long his college stay lasts, his impact on the program will be significant.
With Andrews joining the fold, Arkansas continues to cement itself as a powerhouse in recruiting under Coach Cal and the future in Fayetteville looks as bright as ever.