Karim Rtail Commits to Arkansas Razorbacks, Strengthening 2026 Recruiting Class
The Arkansas Razorbacks have secured a significant addition to their 2026 men’s basketball roster with the commitment of 6-foot-9 Lebanese forward Karim Rtail. At 20 years old, Rtail brings a wealth of international experience, having played professionally in Lithuania’s National Basketball League (NKL) for Neptūnas-Akvaservis. During the 2024–25 season, he averaged 8.3 points and 4.5 rebounds per game, showcasing his scoring ability with a standout performance of 22 points and 10 rebounds in a victory over Delikatesas.
Rtail’s international experience extends beyond club play. He has represented Lebanon in various FIBA tournaments, including the U19 World Cup and the U18 Asian Championship, where he averaged 15.7 points and 5.5 rebounds over 12 games. Additionally, he participated in the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers with the senior Lebanese national team.
Head coach John Calipari continues to bolster the Razorbacks’ roster with top-tier talent. Rtail joins a 2026 recruiting class that already includes five-star guards Darius Acuff Jr. and Meleek Thomas, along with four-star wing Isaiah Sealy. This commitment further solidifies Arkansas’s position as a national recruiting powerhouse, with the 2026 class currently ranked fourth nationally and first in the SEC.
Rtail is expected to enroll for the 2025–26 season, bringing his versatile skill set and international experience to Fayetteville. His addition promises to enhance the Razorbacks’ frontcourt depth and contribute to their continued success on the national stage.