Calipari and Arkansas extend their first in-state Class of 2026 offer to 5-star recruit JaShawn “JJ” Andrews.
Andrews announced his new offer from the Razorbacks — or re-offer, as he previously held an offer from the former UA coaching staff — on social media Monday after a “great conversation” with Calipari and associate head coach Chin Coleman.
Andrews, a 6-foot-6 wing with a 7-foot wingspan from Little Rock Christian Academy, is ranked No. 15 nationally by ESPN.
He is the first in-state recruit from the class of 2026 to receive an offer from Calipari, who has been closely watching Andrews’ performance throughout the 2024 spring and summer seasons, including during his championship run at the Nike E16 Peach Jam in North Augusta, S.C., from July 13-21.
In the Nike E16 Peach Jam championship game, Andrews scored 17 points (7-of-10 field goals, including 1-of-2 from 3, and 2-of-2 free throws), grabbed 4 rebounds, made 3 steals, dished out 2 assists, and blocked 1 shot, helping 16U Brad Beal Elite to a 74-67 victory over 16U Team CP3. In the final minute, with the game tied at 67, Andrews beat a full-court press to set up a go-ahead dunk, forced a turnover with a floor dive, and capped off the game-ending 7-0 run with his own dunk in transition.
Throughout the Nike E16 Peach Jam, Andrews averaged 21.0 points and 8.0 rebounds per game, shooting 68.3% from the field and 78.1% from the free throw line.
Andrews has been a standout player, achieving 19 double-doubles for Little Rock Christian Academy last season, where he averaged over 20 points and 10 rebounds per game as a sophomore and was named MVP in the team’s second consecutive 4A state championship. He also excelled with 16U Brad Beal Elite on the Nike E16 circuit this spring and summer.
In addition to the Razorbacks, Andrews has received high-major Division 1 offers from Illinois, Oklahoma, Ole Miss, Missouri, Texas Tech, and Marquette.
Andrews is known for his sturdy build, long reach, athleticism, and active play that impacts both ends of the floor.
His perimeter game continues to develop, making him a versatile and valuable player.
Andrews’ father, Shawn Andrews, was a two-time All-American offensive lineman at Arkansas (2002 and 2003) and starred for the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFL, earning two Pro Bowl selections (2006 and 2007) and one first-team All-Pro honor (2006).
