Auburn took on Arkansas and narrowly won, 67-60. The Tigers have had a strong season, while the Razorbacks have struggled to stay consistent. However, head coach Bruce Pearl didn’t take anything for granted, especially with Hall of Fame coach John Calipari leading Arkansas.
Bruce Pearl Respects John Calipari’s Experience
Arkansas holds a 15-11 record this season and sits at 4-9 in the SEC, but Pearl knew better than to overlook them. The Razorbacks have secured two impressive wins over ranked opponents, including Calipari’s former team, Kentucky, and Michigan. Both remain in the Top 25, proving Arkansas’ ability to compete against high-level competition.
When asked about coaching against Calipari, Pearl acknowledged the challenge while keeping things lighthearted.
“He’s the only one in the Hall of Fame. … He’s in the Hall of Fame. I’m on the Wall of Shame,” Pearl joked, as shared by Adam Cole on X.
Bruce Pearl gets asked what it means to have “another” Hall of Fame coach on the sideline tonight in John Calipari.
BP: “He’s the only one in the Hall of Fame. … He’s in the Hall of Fame. I’m on the Wall of Shame.” #Auburn
— Adam Cole (@colereporter) February 20, 2025
Despite Arkansas’ inconsistent season, Pearl understood their potential. “Arkansas is talented enough and good enough to beat anybody in our league,” he said. “And they’ve obviously proven it.”
Calipari, who left Kentucky for Arkansas last season, has an extensive coaching résumé. He led Kentucky to a national championship in 2012, six Final Four appearances (two vacated), and multiple SEC titles. He is also a three-time Naismith Coach of the Year and was named AP College Coach of the Year in 2015.
Arkansas Has the Talent To Compete
While Auburn entered as the clear favorite, Arkansas had key players capable of making an impact. Forward Adou Thiero, who followed Calipari from Kentucky, leads the Razorbacks with 15.8 points and 6.1 rebounds per game. Guard Johnell Davis, a transfer from FAU’s 2023 Final Four team, adds experience and averages 10.1 points and 3.4 rebounds per game.
Auburn has the depth and talent to take care of business, but a strong performance from Arkansas nearly changed everything.
KEEP READING: Top 10 Centers in College Basketball
“Our guys understand, Arkansas understands the prize that is on these 40 minutes and what a win would do for them,” Pearl said prior to the game. “It would probably take from where they are — last four in or first four out — and put them in the tournament.”
Auburn and Arkansas faced off at Neville Arena on Wednesday, Feb. 19.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, basketball, and more!
