Calipari, Hoop Hogs add 2025 ESPN Top 50 prospect in 7-foot-1 Paulo Semedo

By Kevin McPherson

LITTLE ROCK — A day after gaining a pledge from an international big man, Arkansas head coach John Calipari doubled down with versatile Angolan forward Paulo Semedo committing to the Razorbacks on Friday.

Semedo (7-1 4/5-combo, 7-5 wingspan, West Oaks Academy College Prep in Orlando, Fla., ESPN national No. 50 / 4-star prospect) visited Arkansas earlier this week, a source confirmed with Hogville.

He reportedly held offers from Arizona State, Miami, and Florida State (the latter of which he reportedly visited recently).

“Really intriguing (prospect),” a source told Hogville on Friday. “Mobile for his size. Dad played professionally in Angola on one of their best clubs. Mom was a pro volleyball player.

“(He) previously played with Zentro Madrid in Spain.”

Semedo’s commitment came a day after Bosnian big man Elmir Dzafic (6-11, 265, center) announced his pledge to Arkansas.

Semedo gives Arkansas four freshmen from the high school ranks that are ALL ranked in the national Top 70, including 5-stars Darius Acuff, Jr., and Meleek Thomas as well as 4-star Isaiah Sealy.

It also brings the Hoop Hogs’ frontcourt to a 6-deep, which now includes Semedo along with Trevon Brazile, Malique Ewin, Nick Pringle, Karim Rtail, and Dzafic.

Semedo combines his elite height and length with plus athleticism and skill.