Razorbacks Strike Gold: Five-Star Sensation Meleek Thomas Joins Calipari’s Arkansas Revolution
In a major development that’s sending shockwaves through college basketball, Meleek Thomas, one of the nation’s most sought-after prospects, has officially committed to the University of Arkansas under new head coach John Calipari. The announcement came Monday night, marking another significant victory for the Razorbacks’ 2025 recruiting class.
The 6-foot-3 shooting guard, currently showcasing his talents at Overtime Elite in Atlanta, chose Arkansas over strong contenders including UConn and Pitt.
Thomas’s commitment coincides with his recent official visit to Fayetteville, during which he joined fellow five-star commit Darius Acuff, a strategic move that significantly benefited the Razorbacks’ recruiting efforts.
Breaking Down the Impact
Thomas’s arrival in Fayetteville isn’t just another recruitment win—it’s a statement. Ranked as the No. 11 overall player and the top shooting guard in the 2025 class by 247Sports, Thomas brings a skill set that has scouts and analysts raving.
His commitment has catapulted Arkansas from No. 57 to No. 14 in the 247Sports Team Rankings, demonstrating the immediate impact of Calipari’s recruiting prowess.
“Thomas is one of the most naturally talented and dynamic guards in the national class,” says Adam Finkelstein, 247Sports’ Director of Scouting. “His versatile scoring ability matches his confidence and assertiveness on the court.”
Whether it’s shooting off the dribble, creating space for step-backs, or finishing in traffic, Thomas possesses an advanced offensive arsenal that sets him apart.”
The Calipari Connection
The commitment highlights Calipari’s growing influence at Arkansas and his ability to maintain strong relationships with top prospects. Thomas himself acknowledged the long-standing connection, noting, “He’s been consistent coming to see me since eighth, ninth grade. When a coach of that caliber is showing interest that early, you have to pay attention.”
Calipari’s track record of developing NBA talent played a crucial role in Thomas’s decision. “His track record says it all,” Thomas remarked. I’m always trying to keep up with his players and who he sends to the league, but he has more every year.”
The Overtime Elite Pipeline
Thomas’s commitment also underscores the growing importance of Overtime Elite as a talent pipeline to top college programs. The Atlanta-based program has already produced notable NBA talents like Amen and Ausar Thompson, Rob Dillingham, and Alex Sarr.
Calipari’s success in recruiting from this pool—first with Dillingham at Kentucky and now Thomas at Arkansas—suggests a strategic focus on tapping into this emerging talent source.
Looking Ahead
With Thomas joining Acuff in Arkansas’s 2025 class, the Razorbacks are building what could become one of the most formidable recruiting classes in recent memory.
The dynamic duo represents Calipari’s first full recruiting class at Arkansas, and early indications suggest he’s replicating the recruiting success that made him legendary at Kentucky.
For Arkansas fans, the future looks increasingly bright. Thomas’s commitment not only brings elite talent to Fayetteville but also signals that Calipari’s vision for transforming Arkansas basketball is already taking shape.
As the Razorbacks continue to build their 2025 class, the college basketball world will be watching closely to see what other moves Calipari has in store.