Finnish big man Miikka Muurinen commits to Arkansas basketball, John Calipari
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Ft. Smith Southwest Times Record
Finnish big man Miikka Muurinen commits to Arkansas basketball, John Calipari
Jackson Fuller, Fort Smith Southwest Times Record·Ft. Smith Southwest Times Record
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3 min read
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FAYETTEVILLE — Another five-star prospect is joining the best recruiting class John Calipari has built withArkansas basketball.
Miikka Muurinen announced his commitment to theRazorbackson Monday, April 27. The 7-foot forward is from Finland and played professionally in Serbia during the most recent season. He joins other five-stars Jordan Smith Jr., JJ Andrews and Abdou Toure in playing their first seasons of college hoops withArkansas.
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Muurinen is a potential NBA Lottery pick, who scored 10 points and grabbed eight rebounds in 15 minutes for Team World at the recent Nike Hoops Summit. He spent the 2023-24 season at Sunrise Christian Academy inKansasand then joinedArizona's Compass Prep for the following year before returning to Europe.
Now, he's coming back to America and will play for the Hogs in the 2026-27 season.
Muurinen has spent time play for Finland's senior national team. He averaged 6.6 points and 1.9 rebounds during EuroBasket 2025, helping Finland to a fourth-place finish.
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)
What does Miika Muurinen bring to Arkansas basketball?
Muurinen figures to fill the void left behind byTrevon Brazileas a stretch-four on Calipari's roster. He is a big man that is more comfortable shooting 3s than posting up defenders on the low block.
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The athleticism at his size is also jaw-dropping. He gets on the receiving end of alley-oops and hunts transition opportunities that lead to dunks. Muurinen is a decent cutter and could turn into a strong offensive rebounder with consistent effort.
On the other end, it remains to be seen if Muurinen can match the physicality required to guard the paint in the SEC. However, he's an active weak-side defender who reads passing lanes and has a knack for leaving his assignment and coming up with blocks on smaller guards.
Calipari still has work to do, but this was a massive step in assembling a frontcourt capable of winning in March.
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Muurinen joins Furman transfer Cooper Bowser and returnee Paulo Semedo as the only three big men projected to be on the Hogs' roster next season. Semedo redshirted during his freshman season in 2025-26.
Now,Arkansasneeds to add at least one center, if not multiple. Bowser could fluctuate between the 4 and the 5, but Arkansas' lack of depth in the frontcourt proved to be an Achilles heel during the most recent Sweet 16 run. Two more big men would go a long way in fixing that issue.
The tranafer portal is closed, and it's unclear who the Hogs are currently targeting with college experience. They are chasing a high school junior in Obinna Ekezie Jr. He is a five-star prospect who could reclassify and play for the Razorbacks later this year.
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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.
