Will Battle Return To Arkansas Next Season?

The Razorback guard continues to show why he was coveted transfer

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. - One of the biggest questions after the regular season home finale is the status of Arkansas guard Khalif Battle's future. In two separate interviews, the Razorbacks star guard stated his desire to return to school in Fayetteville next season.

During the viral interview on "The Ridin' Around Show with Noah Washington", Battle talked about his future plans.

"I've got another year left of eligibility," Battle said. "I'm coming back to school, for sure. It ain't no 'is he coming back' or nothing like that. I'm a Razorback that's all that needs to be known. I'm 10 toes down all the way."

Following last night's 94-83 victory over LSU, Battle was also asked if he decided on his future.

"I'm a Razorback," Battle said. "I'm a Razorback, ain't nothing changed. I'm a Razorback until the end." 

An update on Battle’s status for next season came Thursday morning by X. Perhaps his mind may not be made up with the regular season final against Alabama Saturday.

I’m focused on Alabama and the tournament.. worry about next year later.. please stop asking me

— Khalif Battle (@khalifbattle24) March 7, 2024

Johnny Cash once recorded a song, "I've Been Everywhere" and for Battle he nearly has been. Now, it seems like he's found a home in the middle of the Ozarks.

He signed with Butler out of high school during the 2020 cycle, but didn't contribute much. Once he left for Temple his stock skyrocketed as a collegiate averaging 19 points per game with the Owls.

Battle then transferred to Arkansas with the challenge of playing in the SEC. After an up and down regular season including games where he saw very limited action, the New Jersey native has found firm footing. 

During a time when college athletes have the freedom to transfer at any time, it would be easy for any player on the Hogs' roster to leave. National title aspirations long gone and a .500 record overall is plenty enough reason to transfer.

The 6-foot-5 guard isn't the only player in the Arkansas backcourt with an option to return. Though an announcement has not been made about the future of Tramon Mark, he does have at least two years of eligibility remaining. Returning a high scoring, veteran guard tandem could spell bad news for the rest of the SEC.

Arkansas has scored 85 or more points over the past four games, led by Battle who's averaged 35 points per game. He's also scored in double figures in each of his last six games. A return of Battle to next year's team would heavily benefit Arkansas in the long run. 

Over the past 20 seasons of SEC play, it's rare that a player goes on such a scoring streak. Coach Eric Musselman detailed what Battle's play has meant to the team.

"Obviously, with the way [Battle] is playing there's not many players in the history of the SEC that have gone on a scoring spurt like him," Musselman said. "He's defending better, he's defensive rebounding better."

Musselman didn't rule out a return for Battle next season. However, he did share how he's progressed as a player in this system which has readied many players for the NBA.

"With all players, you play the season out and how it unwinds," Musselman said. "It would be unfair for me to speculate either way. I do think he is really happy playing at Arkansas. We're happy with the way he's progressed and evolved as the season has gone. He's done a great job of buying in and I believe that's why you see his productivity continue to improve." 

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