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Calipari: Razorbacks Not Ready for Season Ahead

10/16/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Arkansas Razorbacks head coach John Calipari says his team is not ready for the season, calling their scrimmage 'a ways to go' after a poor showing.
Calipari notes transfer rules allowing players to switch schools without sitting out have driven roster changes and could favor larger programs over mid-majors.
D.J. Wagner, a junior guard, scored 18 points in practice as Arkansas prepares for an exhibition against Cincinnati on October 24.

History

Historical Context

The NCAA launched the transfer portal on October 15, 2018, allowing student-athletes to transfer schools without sitting out a year. This shift has led to increased roster turnover, benefiting larger programs like Arkansas while challenging mid-major teams. Coach John Calipari's concerns highlight the ongoing impact of these rules on competitive balance and recruitment strategies in college basketball.

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Story summary

Arkansas Razorbacks head coach John Calipari says his team is not ready for the season, calling their scrimmage 'a ways to go' after a poor showing.
Calipari notes transfer rules allowing players to switch schools without sitting out have driven roster changes and could favor larger programs over mid-majors.
D.J. Wagner, a junior guard, scored 18 points in practice as Arkansas prepares for an exhibition against Cincinnati on October 24.

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