NCAA Gives Razorbacks Unexpected Help with Waiver

Keyon Menifield immediately eligible after NCAA grants waiver this week

Author:
Daniel Shi
Publish date:
Dec 15, 2023 5:12 PM EST

In this story:

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — With Arkansas treading water at 6-4 and coming off an uninspiring 79-70 loss to Oklahoma, the Razorbacks got some unexpected reinforcements Friday.

The NCAA granted guard Keyon Menifield a waiver that immediately deems him eligible for the Hogs' matchup against Lipscomb Dec. 16. Menifield comes with quite a pedigree after just one season at Washington.

Menifield made Pac-12 All-Freshman last year averaging 10 points and 3.1 assists per game including a career high of 27 against Oregon on Feb. 15, 2022. He is the first Washington player with at least 27 points, seven assists and five rebounds in a game since former No. 1 pick Markelle Fultz. The Flint, Mich., native was a consensus three-star prospect from high school.

Razorbacks coach Eric Musselman on sidelines against Oklahoma

“It has been a long process that we had to work through," coach Eric Musselman said. "We are excited for Keyon and are proud of how he handled the process. Our staff and administration have worked hard to get this done and we appreciate their hard work. Keyon is an explosive point guard with great play-making ability.”

Menifield should instantly put himself in the guard rotation mix moving forward. Arkansas' matchup against Lipscomb tips off at 5 p.m. and the game will be streamed on ESPN+.

He has been practicing with the team and played in the Red-White game in October, playing 28 minutes and putting up 5 points with 3 assists, a steal and a rebound. Other than getting in some game shape, he is likely ready to play.