Top-30 National Prospect and Razorback Legacy JJ Andrews Commits to Arkansas Over LSU and Mizzou, Capping Historic Run as Gatorade Player of the Year
Fayetteville, AR — The Arkansas Razorbacks have landed a monumental commitment that could reshape the trajectory of their basketball program. JJ Andrews, the dynamic 6-foot-6 wing from Little Rock, Arkansas, and the reigning Arkansas Gatorade Player of the Year, announced his decision to commit to the University of Arkansas, turning down major offers from LSU and Missouri in the process.
Ranked among the top 30 prospects nationally by ESPN, 247Sports, and Rivals, Andrews’ commitment comes as a massive win for new head coach John Calipari, who continues to build a roster loaded with elite talent and high-character players. For Andrews, however, the decision went beyond rankings and accolades—it was about family, legacy, and pride.
“I’ve dreamed of wearing that Razorback jersey since I was a kid,” Andrews said during his announcement on Tuesday. “It’s more than just basketball. It’s home.”
Andrews’ decision marks a full-circle moment for his family. He is a Razorback legacy, following in the footsteps of his father, who also played basketball at Arkansas in the 1990s. That deep connection to the program played a key role in JJ’s decision, especially with the program undergoing a new era under Calipari’s leadership.
A Statement Season
Andrews had a sensational 2024-25 season with Little Rock Central, leading the team to a state championship and averaging 22.4 points, 8.1 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 2.5 steals per game. His elite two-way play and leadership earned him the Arkansas Gatorade Player of the Year, an honor that recognizes not just athletic performance, but academic achievement and exemplary character.
Scouts rave about his versatility, length, and basketball IQ. “He’s the kind of player who can change the course of a game on both ends of the floor,” one national scout noted. “JJ is a high-floor, high-ceiling player who’s only just scratching the surface of what he can be.”
Beating the SEC Giants
Landing Andrews wasn’t easy. Programs like LSU and Missouri made strong pitches, with NIL incentives and the promise of immediate playing time. However, Arkansas’ mix of tradition, fan support, competitive ambition, and Calipari’s proven track record with player development tipped the scale.
“I respect LSU and Mizzou a lot, but I want to win at the highest level and represent my home state while doing it,” Andrews said. “I believe in what Coach Calipari is building here.”
The Calipari Effect
Since his arrival in Fayetteville, Calipari has wasted no time making an impact on the recruiting trail. JJ Andrews marks the third top-50 commitment for the Razorbacks this cycle and a cornerstone for what could become a top-three national recruiting class.
Calipari praised Andrews’ decision and character in a statement following the commitment:
“JJ is the kind of player who embodies everything we want at Arkansas—tough, talented, hardworking, and passionate about this state. Razorback fans are going to love watching him in Bud Walton Arena.”
Looking Ahead
Andrews is expected to make an immediate impact for the Hogs when he steps on campus in 2025. With a skillset that allows him to play both guard and forward positions, he’s likely to be a central figure in the Razorbacks’ rotation. His ability to stretch the floor, defend multiple positions, and lead by example gives Arkansas one of the most complete high school prospects in recent memory.
For the fanbase, this commitment isn’t just about adding a top player—it’s about rekindling the state pride that has long defined Razorback basketball.
As Arkansas reloads and looks to return to national championship contention, one thing is clear: JJ Andrews isn’t just coming to Fayetteville to play—he’s coming to make history.
