Story by
Ft. Smith Southwest Times Record
Arkansas basketball wing Billy Richmond III declares for 2026 NBA Draft
- Story byFt. Smith Southwest Times Record
- Arkansas basketball wing Billy Richmond III declares for 2026 NBA Draft
FAYETTEVILLE — Arkansas basketball sophomore Billy Richmond III will test the professional waters.
Richmond declared for the NBA Draft on Friday, April 24, in a post on his personal Instagram account. He also announced that he will maintain his college eligibility and is not ruling out a return to the Razorbacks for the 2026-27 season.
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The lefty wing blossomed in his second season under John Calipari. He averaged 11.2 points, 4.3 rebounds, 2 assists and 1.1 steals and helped Arkansas reach the Sweet 16 for a second consecutive season. He was voted to the 2026 SEC All-Defensive Team by the league's coaches and was one of three Razorbacks to play in all 37 games.
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Nick Pringle (23) and Arizona Wildcats forward Ivan Kharchenkov (8) get tangled up after a foul in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Nick Pringle (23) fouls Arizona Wildcats forward Ivan Kharchenkov (8) in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
(Kyle Terada, Kyle Terada-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard D.J. Wagner (21) shoots over Arizona Wildcats forward Ivan Kharchenkov (8) in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard Darius Acuff Jr. (5) shoots past Arizona Wildcats guard Brayden Burries (5) in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard Meleek Thomas (1) shoots the ball against the Arizona Wildcats in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Nick Pringle (23) fouls Arizona Wildcats forward Ivan Kharchenkov (8) in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
(Kyle Terada, Kyle Terada-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Nick Pringle (23) dunks against the Arizona Wildcats in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard D.J. Wagner (21) shoots the ball against the Arizona Wildcats in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard Darius Acuff Jr. (5) shoots past Arizona Wildcats guard Dwayne Aristode (2) in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Nick Pringle (23) dunks against Arizona Wildcats forward Ivan Kharchenkov (8) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Malique Ewin (12) reacts after losing to the Arizona Wildcats in a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard Darius Acuff Jr. (5) is seen during a timeout against the Arizona Wildcats in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Trevon Brazile (7) shoots the ball over Arizona Wildcats forward Tobe Awaka (30) in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Kyle Terada, Kyle Terada-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard Darius Acuff Jr. (5) shoots past Arizona Wildcats center Motiejus Krivas (13) in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Nick Pringle (23) and Arizona Wildcats center Motiejus Krivas (13) go after a loose ball in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks and Arizona Wildcats cheerleaders perform during a timeout in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
(Kyle Terada, Kyle Terada-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; A referee looks to break up a scuffle between the Arkansas Razorbacks and the Arizona Wildcats in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Trevon Brazile (7) shoots over Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach John Calipari instructs his team against the Arizona Wildcats in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Billy Richmond III (24) commits an offensive foul against Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Billy Richmond III (24) reacts after hitting the court after an offensive foul against the Arizona Wildcats in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard Darius Acuff Jr. (5) dribbles the ball against Arizona Wildcats guard Jaden Bradley (0) in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; The Arkansas Razorbacks band performs during halftime against the Arizona Wildcats during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Tobe Awaka (30) dunks the ball past Arkansas Razorbacks forward Nick Pringle (23) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Tobe Awaka (30) dunks the ball past Arkansas Razorbacks forward Nick Pringle (23) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach John Calipari takes to a referee against the Arizona Wildcats in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats center Motiejus Krivas (13) and Arkansas Razorbacks forward Trevon Brazile (7) reach for the ball in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; An Arkansas Razorbacks cheerleader performs during a timeout against the Arizona Wildcats in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Tobe Awaka (30) dunks on Arkansas Razorbacks forward Trevon Brazile (7) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard D.J. Wagner (21) shoots past Arizona Wildcats center Motiejus Krivas (13) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
(Kyle Terada, Kyle Terada-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats center Motiejus Krivas (13) shoots over Arkansas Razorbacks forward Malique Ewin (12) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) shoots the ball against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats center Motiejus Krivas (13) shoots over Arkansas Razorbacks forward Trevon Brazile (7) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Tobe Awaka (30) scores past Arkansas Razorbacks forward Trevon Brazile (7) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) dunks the ball against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
(Kyle Terada, Kyle Terada-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach John Calipari looks on against the Arizona Wildcats in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Tobe Awaka (30) dunks the ball against Arkansas Razorbacks forward Trevon Brazile (7) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Malique Ewin (12) scores past Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Trevon Brazile (7) dunks the ball against the Arizona Wildcats in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Trevon Brazile (7) shoots over Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
(Kyle Terada, Kyle Terada-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats guard Brayden Burries (5) reaches for a loose ball against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Malique Ewin (12) shoots the ball against \Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
(Kyle Terada, Kyle Terada-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard Darius Acuff Jr. (5) goes to the basket against the Arizona Wildcats in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
(Kyle Terada, Kyle Terada-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) hangs on the rim after a dunk against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach John Calipari reacts to a play against the Arizona Wildcats in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Nick Pringle (23) and Arizona Wildcats forward Ivan Kharchenkov (8) get tangled up after a foul in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Nick Pringle (23) and Arizona Wildcats forward Ivan Kharchenkov (8) get tangled up after a foul in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Nick Pringle (23) fouls Arizona Wildcats forward Ivan Kharchenkov (8) in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
(Kyle Terada, Kyle Terada-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard D.J. Wagner (21) shoots over Arizona Wildcats forward Ivan Kharchenkov (8) in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball PG Darius Acuff Jr. declares for 2026 NBA Draft
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard Darius Acuff Jr. (5) shoots past Arizona Wildcats guard Brayden Burries (5) in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball SG Meleek Thomas declares for 2026 NBA Draft
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard Meleek Thomas (1) shoots the ball against the Arizona Wildcats in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Nick Pringle (23) fouls Arizona Wildcats forward Ivan Kharchenkov (8) in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
(Kyle Terada, Kyle Terada-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Nick Pringle (23) dunks against the Arizona Wildcats in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard D.J. Wagner (21) shoots the ball against the Arizona Wildcats in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard Darius Acuff Jr. (5) shoots past Arizona Wildcats guard Dwayne Aristode (2) in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Nick Pringle (23) dunks against Arizona Wildcats forward Ivan Kharchenkov (8) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Malique Ewin (12) reacts after losing to the Arizona Wildcats in a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard Darius Acuff Jr. (5) is seen during a timeout against the Arizona Wildcats in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Trevon Brazile (7) shoots the ball over Arizona Wildcats forward Tobe Awaka (30) in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Kyle Terada, Kyle Terada-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard Darius Acuff Jr. (5) shoots past Arizona Wildcats center Motiejus Krivas (13) in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Nick Pringle (23) and Arizona Wildcats center Motiejus Krivas (13) go after a loose ball in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks and Arizona Wildcats cheerleaders perform during a timeout in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
(Kyle Terada, Kyle Terada-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; A referee looks to break up a scuffle between the Arkansas Razorbacks and the Arizona Wildcats in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Trevon Brazile (7) shoots over Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach John Calipari instructs his team against the Arizona Wildcats in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Billy Richmond III (24) commits an offensive foul against Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Billy Richmond III (24) reacts after hitting the court after an offensive foul against the Arizona Wildcats in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard Darius Acuff Jr. (5) dribbles the ball against Arizona Wildcats guard Jaden Bradley (0) in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; The Arkansas Razorbacks band performs during halftime against the Arizona Wildcats during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Tobe Awaka (30) dunks the ball past Arkansas Razorbacks forward Nick Pringle (23) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Tobe Awaka (30) dunks the ball past Arkansas Razorbacks forward Nick Pringle (23) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach John Calipari takes to a referee against the Arizona Wildcats in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats center Motiejus Krivas (13) and Arkansas Razorbacks forward Trevon Brazile (7) reach for the ball in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; An Arkansas Razorbacks cheerleader performs during a timeout against the Arizona Wildcats in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Tobe Awaka (30) dunks on Arkansas Razorbacks forward Trevon Brazile (7) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard D.J. Wagner (21) shoots past Arizona Wildcats center Motiejus Krivas (13) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
(Kyle Terada, Kyle Terada-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats center Motiejus Krivas (13) shoots over Arkansas Razorbacks forward Malique Ewin (12) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) shoots the ball against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats center Motiejus Krivas (13) shoots over Arkansas Razorbacks forward Trevon Brazile (7) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Tobe Awaka (30) scores past Arkansas Razorbacks forward Trevon Brazile (7) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) dunks the ball against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
(Kyle Terada, Kyle Terada-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball, John Calipari land nation's best recruiting class
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach John Calipari looks on against the Arizona Wildcats in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Tobe Awaka (30) dunks the ball against Arkansas Razorbacks forward Trevon Brazile (7) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Malique Ewin (12) scores past Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Trevon Brazile (7) dunks the ball against the Arizona Wildcats in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Trevon Brazile (7) shoots over Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
(Kyle Terada, Kyle Terada-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats guard Brayden Burries (5) reaches for a loose ball against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Malique Ewin to transfer from Arkansas basketball, seek waiver for eligibility
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Malique Ewin (12) shoots the ball against \Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
(Kyle Terada, Kyle Terada-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard Darius Acuff Jr. (5) goes to the basket against the Arizona Wildcats in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
(Kyle Terada, Kyle Terada-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) hangs on the rim after a dunk against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Arkansas basketball vs Arizona in NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 photos
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach John Calipari reacts to a play against the Arizona Wildcats in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Richmond's offense reached another level when he was inserted into the starting lineup in mid-February. He replaced the injured Karter Knox, who is transferring to Louisville for the upcoming season. He had 21 games scoring double figures as a sophomore after only totaling six in his freshman season.
In SEC games, Richmond ranked second in the league with a shooting percentage of 57.4%.
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Richmond's status in the 2026 NBA Draft is unclear. He is not a consensus first-round pick, but the Memphis native could elevate himself with a strong performance in the combine and workout circuit.
Losing Richmond would be a huge loss for an Arkansas team that already has plenty of questions heading into next season. The Razorbacks still need to add multiple big men and they are awaiting an official decision from freshman guard Meleek Thomas, who preceded Richmond in declaring for the NBA Draft while maintaining his college eligibility.
If Richmond does opt to stay in the NBA Draft, Arkansas would rely on a pair of incoming freshmen to replace his playing time and production. Five-star recruits JJ Andrews and Abdou Toure will arrive on campus this summer as players who can shift between guard and forward for Calipari.
Jackson Fuller covers Arkansas football, basketball and baseball for the Southwest Times Record, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach him at jfuller@usatodayco.com or follow him @jacksonfuller16 on X, formerly known as Twitter.
This article originally appeared on Fort Smith Times Record: Arkansas basketball wing Billy Richmond III declares for 2026 NBA Draft
