Arkansas Razorbacks starting center Nick Pringle has been an integral part of the lineup heading into March Madness. However, the team faces a tough test against the No. 13 seed Hawaii Rainbow Warriors in the first round on Thursday, March 19, 2026.
Nick Pringle’s Availability Remains Uncertain for Tournament Opener
Pringle is listed as questionable in the initial NCAA availability report as the No. 4 seed Razorbacks prepare for the tournament opener in Portland. The team has been running low on depth due to a short rotation of high-impact players, relying on a limited core for scoring, defense, and rebounding.
After winning the SEC Tournament against Vanderbilt, the Razorbacks took the court for an open practice on Wednesday. Pringle was in action for only a brief period and was not a full participant.
If the senior forward, who started 33 out of 34 games this year and averaged 4.6 points and 3.9 rebounds, remains absent, Malique Ewin will likely step up as the starter. Ewin averaged 9.7 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 0.8 blocks this season, earning an opportunity to start against Texas A&M in February.
There will also be added pressure on Trevon Brazile to help secure the win and set the team up for the second round. Hawaii will enter with a significant frontcourt presence led by senior center Isaac Johnson, who was recently named the Big West Championship MVP.
Arkansas Navigates Depth Issues With Karter Knox Sidelined
Another factor impacting the Razorbacks is the absence of sophomore Karter Knox. While Knox is reportedly walking without crutches, he will not play following left meniscus surgery in February. He suffered the knee injury and missed 11 of the last 12 games, having aggravated the issue after an initial attempt to return.
Pringle has been a mainstay in the lineup this year. He was previously a key contributor for Alabama during its 2024 Final Four run and the 2022–23 season. Most recently, he was integral in helping the Razorbacks to their first SEC title since 2000.
In the championship game, the senior recorded six rebounds, two blocks, a steal, and an assist in 19 minutes, receiving praise from head coach John Calipari. It was freshman Darius Acuff Jr. who handed Vanderbilt an 86-75 loss in the final, finishing with 30 points and 11 assists.
The win was also historic for Calipari. He became the first men’s coach in SEC history to win tournament titles with two different programs.
