I’m filling in for Ryan, who has been away this weekend, but have some basketball news to share with you. Since I’m short on time, I’ll just make it short and sweet:

• First of all, John Pelphrey confirmed today that Marcus Monk will join the team and is scheduled to practice for the first time on Thursday. It’s no secret that Monk was going to be playing with the Razorbacks. That’s been out there for some time now. But this was the first time we have a practice date solidified. It means there’s a good chance he’ll be in uniform for Saturday’s game against Stephen F. Austin.

• In more not-so-shocking news, point guard Courtney Fortson was named SEC Player of the Week after notching his triple-double against North Carolina Central last week. But listen to this: It’s the first time an Arkansas freshman has ever won the award. That’s pretty surprising, huh?

• Lastly, Pelphrey said there is no new news on forward Montrell McDonald who remains suspended indefinitely. McDonald hasn’t played in the past three games and his return is uncertain.