In a bold move that has sent ripples through the college basketball world, 20-year-old Lebanese forward Karim Rtail has committed to the Arkansas Razorbacks, choosing them over prominent programs like Penn State, Butler, and SMU . This decision marks a significant win for head coach John Calipari, who continues to reshape Arkansas’s roster with top-tier talent .
From Beirut to the SEC: Rtail’s Remarkable Journey
Standing at 6’9″, Rtail brings a wealth of international experience to Fayetteville. He has played professionally for Neptūnas-Akvaservis in Lithuania’s National Basketball League, where he averaged 8.3 points and 4.5 rebounds per game during the 2024–25 season . His standout performance came on November 2, when he notched 22 points and 10 rebounds in a commanding victory .
Beyond his club experience, Rtail has been a key player for Lebanon’s national teams. In the 2022 FIBA U18 Asian Championship, he averaged 17.8 points over five games, and in the 2023 FIBA U19 Basketball World Cup, he contributed 13.6 points across seven games . His versatility allows him to play multiple positions, and he’s known for his ability to score from all three levels of the court .
Calipari’s Recruiting Masterstroke
Rtail’s commitment adds to an already impressive 2025 recruiting class for Arkansas. He joins five-star guards Darius Acuff Jr. and Meleek Thomas, as well as four-star wing Isaiah Sealy . Before Rtail’s addition, the Razorbacks’ class was ranked fourth nationally and first in the SEC .
Coach Calipari’s reputation for developing NBA-ready talent, particularly guards, played a significant role in attracting top recruits . With Rtail’s size and international experience, he is expected to make an immediate impact in the Razorbacks’ frontcourt .
Looking Ahead
Rtail is currently working on obtaining his student visa and plans to enroll for the Summer 1 session in May . His addition not only bolsters Arkansas’s roster but also signals the program’s growing international reach under Calipari’s leadership .
As the Razorbacks prepare for their NCAA Tournament matchup against Kansas, the future looks bright with Rtail and a host of talented recruits set to join the team . Arkansas fans have every reason to be excited about what’s to come .
