URGENT UPDATE: Top-35 senior Abdou Toure has officially committed to Arkansas, giving head coach John Calipari a significant boost in the 2026 recruiting class. This announcement comes just hours after Toure declared his decision, choosing the Razorbacks over strong contenders Providence and UConn.
Toure’s commitment marks a pivotal moment for Arkansas, as he becomes Calipari’s second recruit in this class, following five-star small forward JaShawn Andrews who committed in May. Toure, a standout wing from Notre Dame High School in Connecticut, is currently ranked No. 31 in the SC Next 100, solidifying his status as the highest-ranked player in his state.
In a statement to ESPN, Toure emphasized the role of Calipari’s coaching style in his decision. “
Coach Cal and his history was the main reason I chose Arkansas. He treats his players with care and energy, making a difference in how he prepares them for the NBA,”
Toure shared. His admiration for Calipari’s player-centric approach and the intensity of the practices were key factors that swayed his commitment.
Toure’s impressive track record includes averaging 15.4 points and 5.1 rebounds per game while playing for BABC in the Adidas 3SSB circuit this year. Notably, he exploded for 28 points against Wildcat Select in July and was honored as the Gatorade Boys Basketball Player of the Year in Connecticut after averaging 25.1 points per game during his junior season.
As Arkansas continues to build a formidable roster, they are eyeing several high-profile targets still available, including Jordan Smith, Caleb Holt, Brandon McCoy, and Arafan Diane. Toure has expressed his desire to recruit Diane to join him in Fayetteville, having played alongside him for Guinea at the 2024 FIBA U17 World Cup.
This commitment not only strengthens Arkansas’s future but also underscores Calipari’s ongoing influence in shaping elite basketball talent. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching how this class develops as Toure and Andrews aim to elevate the Razorbacks to new heights in college basketball.
