Karter Knox, a promising forward for the Arkansas Razorbacks, announced his decision to return for the 2025-26 season. He revealed his choice on Monday via social media, withdrawing his name from the 2025 NBA Draft after initially declaring on April 17 while maintaining his collegiate eligibility. This move is considered a significant boost for Coach John Calipari and the Razorbacks program, described as a "massive development."

As a freshman, Knox made a notable impact, averaging 8.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1 assist per game. He appeared in 36 games, securing 24 starts, including starting 24 of Arkansas' final 25 contests as he slotted into the starting lineup in December. Knox demonstrated efficiency with a comprehensive shooting line of .462 from the field, .350 from three-point range, and .802 from the free-throw line. He was a key rotational piece for the Hogs and is expected to see his role expand.

Knox, the younger brother of Golden State Warriors wing Kevin Knox, had been openly on the fence about whether to turn professional or continue his college career. His name gained few projections on mock drafts, and his decision to return is aimed at using another year of eligibility to further develop his talent, maximize his potential with the program, and grow his stock for future NBA consideration.

Knox's freshman campaign was particularly highlighted by his stellar performances during the 2025 NCAA Tournament, where Arkansas, as a No. 10 seed, made an "improbably impressive" run to the Sweet 16. After navigating foul trouble in the first-round matchup against Kansas, Knox elevated his play. In the Round of 32 against No. 2 seed St. John's, he scored 15 points on just five field goal attempts, was relentless in drawing fouls (converting 9 of 11 free throws), and showcased his two-way ability with five "stocks" (four blocks and a steal), paving the way for an upset victory. He followed this with an arguably even better game in the Sweet 16 against Texas Tech; despite an overtime loss that ended Arkansas' run and saw them let an Elite Eight berth slip away, Knox scored an efficient 20 points on 6-of-8 shooting (including a perfect 4-of-4 from three-point range) and grabbed 6 rebounds.

Knox's return is crucial for an Arkansas squad looking to build on its Sweet 16 appearance during Calipari's inaugural season, which, though turbulent and filled with ups and downs, was an overall success. The team finished the 2024-25 season with a 22-14 overall record (8-10 in SEC Play), averaging 76.8 points on 46.2% overall shooting and defeating opponents by an average margin of 5.4 points per game. With Knox rejoining, he will be part of a core that includes other returning players like D.J. Wagner, Trevon Brazile, and Billy Richmond III, a unit described as having "unfinished business."

The No. 25-ranked player of the 2024 recruiting class and a four-star prospect, Knox looked every bit the part last season and figures to be an integral part of Calipari's plans for 2025-26. His decision significantly bolsters the Razorbacks' prospects, with ESPN's Jeff Borzello placing Arkansas 10th in the latest early NCAA top 25 rankings. Regarding other teammates who entered the draft, Boogie Fland withdrew and transferred to Florida, while Adou Thiero is still going through the draft process, reportedly leaning toward staying in, though a collegiate return remains possible.