Arkansas Razorbacks forward Billy Richmond III has been named to the 2027 Julius Erving Award preseason watch list as the program prepares for the upcoming campaign. The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame announced the 20 candidates for the annual honor, which recognizes the top small forward in NCAA Division I men’s basketball. Richmond, a preseason All-SEC selection, stands as a central figure in the Razorbacks’ roster as they look to build on their recent tactical developments under John Calipari.
Building on a Proven Track Record
During the testing phase, he recorded the fastest lane agility drill time at 10.23 seconds and tied Darius Acuff Jr. for the best mark in the 3/4 court sprint at 3.06 seconds.
Beyond his physical metrics, Richmond has established a reputation for defensive intensity. He was named to the SEC All-Defensive Team and recognized on the College Hoops Today’s All-Glue Team—a designation that highlights players who provide essential, often unglamorous contributions to team success. As the only Razorback to appear in all 73 games of the John Calipari era, his durability has been a constant for the program. He enters this season with a clear individual milestone in sight, as he is currently on pace to eclipse the 1,000-point career threshold.
The Competitive Landscape
The Julius Erving Award, now in its 13th year, highlights the evolution of the small forward position in the modern college game. Richmond is joined on the 2027 watch list by a diverse group of competitors from across the country, including Amari Allen of Alabama, Duke’s Dame Sarr, and Coen Carr of Michigan State.
Arkansas junior wing Billy Richmond III is among 20 players named to the Julius Erving Award watch list, a postseason honor that goes to the nation's best small forward pic.twitter.com/m0cOg3jHZN
The depth of the Razorbacks' roster is evident as other teammates also appeared on Naismith Starting 5 watch lists. Jordan Smith Jr. is under consideration for the Bob Cousy Award as the nation’s top point guard, while Jeremiah Wilkinson is a candidate for the Jerry West Award, which honors the premier shooting guard.
Looking Toward the Regular Season
While preseason watch lists recognize top candidates, Billy Richmond III and the Razorbacks are preparing for the upcoming season. Having been named the ninth-most impactful junior in the nation by analyst Andy Katz, Richmond faces the challenge of maintaining his defensive efficiency while increasing his offensive output.
Another day, another watchlist. This time Billy Richmond III is on the Julius Erving Small Forward of the Year Preseason Watch List. https://t.co/HxzcqpTLAC
