Mark Mitchell Transfers to Arkansas, Ends Two-Year Tenure at Duke
In a surprising offseason move, Duke forward Mark Mitchell has announced his decision to transfer to the University of Arkansas for the 2025–26 season. The 6-foot-9 sophomore leaves Duke after two productive seasons, where he played a critical role as a versatile defender and dependable scorer in the Blue Devils’ frontcourt.
Mitchell, a former five-star recruit, started in nearly every game over his two years at Duke. During the 2024–25 season, he averaged 11.2 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game, shooting an efficient 48% from the field. His ability to guard multiple positions, finish at the rim, and contribute in transition made him a key piece in Duke’s run to the Final Four this past season.
Citing the desire for a “fresh opportunity” and “new challenges,” Mitchell entered the transfer portal shortly after the season ended. Arkansas quickly emerged as a frontrunner, offering him a chance to play a more prominent offensive role while continuing to compete at a high level in the SEC under head coach John Calipari, who recently took over the Razorbacks program after leaving Kentucky.
Mitchell’s departure creates a significant hole in Duke’s lineup, especially on the defensive end. However, with a top-tier recruiting class coming in and returning talent on the roster, head coach Jon Scheyer will have options to fill the void.
In his farewell post, Mitchell thanked Duke fans, coaches, and teammates for their support: “Durham will always be a second home. I’m grateful for every moment I spent wearing the Duke jersey.”
For Arkansas, Mitchell brings experience, toughness, and big-game maturity—attributes that could help elevate the Razorbacks into serious contenders in the SEC next season. Meanwhile, Duke looks to regroup and reload, as is tradition for one of college basketball’s premier programs.
