All Transfer Targets that Calipari, Razorbacks Have in Sight
John Calipari has added his former starting point guard at Kentucky, DJ Wagner, to his roster at Arkansas. It’s no surprise he chose the Razorbacks given his family’s longstanding connection to Calipari, spanning two generations.
Wagner was a 5-star prospect in the 2023 cycle and signed with Kentucky as the No. 6 prospect in the country, per 247Sports. He started his freshman year strong, scoring in double figures in ten of his first 16 games. During that stretch, he averaged 13 points, shot 46% from the field, 33% from three-point range, and 68% from the free-throw line. The 6-3 point guard also contributed four assists, two rebounds, and one steal per game. Regaining his early freshman form will be crucial for the Razorbacks and Calipari.
Calipari recently mentioned that he’s not aiming for a full 13-man roster, instead considering a 10-man roster for next season. Arkansas currently has a loaded backcourt but only two post players, Jonas Aidoo and Zvonimir Ivisic. Depth is a concern right now, but this will likely be addressed over the next month. Here are a few potential transfers the Hogs could target:
Trevon Brazile, Arkansas
Brazile has been in the transfer portal since mid-April and recently withdrew from NBA Draft consideration. He will return to school next season with several suitors. A return to Arkansas is a strong possibility. Last season was inconsistent for Brazile, coming off an ACL tear and dealing with mental hurdles during a letdown year. By October, he will be two years removed from his injury. Calipari is known for motivating players, and Brazile could find his path to the NBA under his guidance.
Coleman Hawkins, Illinois
Hawkins is one of the more highly regarded post players in the transfer portal. The 6-11 big man had his best season, averaging 12 points, six rebounds, and over one block per game while shooting 37% from three-point range. NIL opportunities will be significant for Hawkins, who intends to be drafted. If Calipari can land Hawkins, it would solidify a strong frontcourt for the Razorbacks.
JT Toppin, New Mexico
Toppin’s draft stock rose significantly this season as he earned Mountain West Conference Rookie of the Year honors, averaging 12 points, nine rebounds, and two blocks per game. An elite finisher around the rim, Toppin made over 62% of his field goals last season, placing him in the top-20 all-time among freshmen in NCAA history. Landing Toppin would be a significant addition for Arkansas, as he has one of the highest ceilings of any transfer.
Wooga Poplar, Miami
Poplar is one of the quieter recruitments of the offseason. He has entered the NBA Draft but has until May 29 to decide. Villanova is considered a leader for Poplar, and Kentucky is also expecting an official visit. Poplar had his best season as a junior, scoring 13 points per game on 42% shooting and 39% from three-point range. Adding Poplar would give Arkansas a dangerous backcourt with a mix of experience and young talent.
Jaylen Wells, Washington State
Wells, an unknown JUCO product, led Washington State to its first NCAA Tournament appearance in 15 years. Last season, he averaged 13 points and five rebounds per game, shooting 44% from the field, 42% from three-point range, and 81% from the free-throw line. His postseason performance was impressive, averaging 19 points on 50% shooting and leading the Cougars to a Sweet 16 appearance. Wells is considered a second-round prospect by Sports Illustrated’s Draft Digest and NBADraft.net. Pursuing his NBA dreams might be a viable option for Wells, given his rising stock.
With the deadline to withdraw from the NBA Draft approaching on March 30 at midnight, Calipari will soon know exactly who he can target for the final spot on Arkansas’ roster.
