FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The Razorbacks are completing their initial roster under John Calipari. Melo Sanchez, a shooting guard from NCAA Division II Hawaii Pacific, announced on his X account that he will be transferring to Arkansas.
Sanchez has averaged 14 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists per game over the past two seasons. He is a proficient shooter, boasting a career shooting percentage of 42% from the floor, 40% from three-point range, and 80% from the free-throw line.
His shooting prowess is strikingly similar to that of Oakland’s Jack Gohlke, who played at Hillsdale College before transferring for his final season of eligibility. Gohlke became an instant sensation when he made 10 three-pointers in the Grizzlies’ upset victory over Kentucky in the first round of the 2024 NCAA Tournament.
Off-balance jump shots combined with solid ball-handling skills make Sanchez an exciting player with something to prove. He will have the opportunity to carve out a role for Arkansas, but finding playing time may be challenging given the already strong backcourt.
Fellow shooting guard Jaden Karuletwa announced his commitment to the Razorbacks on Tuesday morning. He will join Arkansas’ 2024 signing class after attending Village Christian High School in Sun Valley, California. As a senior, Karuletwa averaged 14 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists on 43% shooting, 40% from three-point range, and an impressive 93% from the free-throw line. He finished his high school career with over 1,000 points scored.
Early in his tenure at Arkansas, Coach John Calipari made it clear that he intends to shift his roster strategy. For at least one season, the Razorbacks will prioritize experience over youth, diverging from Calipari’s traditional approach at Kentucky.
Calipari also spoke at length about an eight to nine man rotation. He mentioned if any others were brought in they would serve in a walk-on capacity while on scholarship with NIL opportunities.
“A walk-on for me will be on full scholarship — like the old days,” Calipari said during SEC Spring Meetings. “He’s going to work his way into the NIL.”
Arkansas Transfer Class
G Johnell Davis
G DJ Wagner
G Melo Sanchz
F Adou Thiero
F Zvonimir Ivisic
C Jonas Aidoo
Arkansas 2024 Signing Class
G Boogie Fland
G Jaden Karuletwa
G Karter Knox
F Billy Richmond
