Arkansas fans are holding their breath as leading scorer Adou Thiero’s availability for Thursday’s Sweet 16 matchup against Texas Tech is uncertain. Head coach John Calipari provided an update during Wednesday’s press conference, revealing that Thiero’s leg injury continues to be a concern 24 hours before their crucial NCAA Tournament game.
Adou Thiero’s Determination Amid Injury Struggles
Despite the setback, John Calipari praised Adou Thiero’s character and determination to contribute to the team’s tournament run. According to the coach, Thiero has maintained a positive attitude despite dealing with injury concerns that have limited his participation.
“Adou practiced yesterday, leg was bothering him today, so I didn’t put him through anything,” Calipari stated during his media availability at Chase Center in San Francisco. “We’ll see tomorrow. I mean, if we had 8 to 10 minutes from him, you know, in case of foul trouble, it would help, but you know, we’re fine,” Calipari explained.
“Adou said the same, probably had people in his orbit [saying] ‘why would you play, you can’t do… you know, and all of a sudden, he’s like, ‘Coach, I want to try this…I’ve waited for this moment, and if I can do it, I’m going to try.'”
Arkansas has already demonstrated its ability to adjust when key players are limited, with Calipari highlighting how others have stepped up in recent games. The coach specifically mentioned the contributions of Trevon Brazil, DJ Wagner, and Billy Richmond III who have all taken advantage of increased playing time.
“First of all, the players that stepped in, Trevon Brazil, took advantage. Unbelievable, how about it gave Billy [Richmond] a chance to play big minutes; they all took advantage,” Calipari noted, suggesting the team has developed depth that could help them navigate Thiero’s potential absence.
Razorbacks Face Tough Challenge Against Texas Tech
Whether Thiero plays or not, Arkansas faces a significant challenge against a well-coached Texas Tech team. During his press conference, Calipari acknowledged the Red Raiders’ versatility and effectiveness on both offense and defense.
“Texas Tech are well coached; they can beat you either inside, outside, shooting threes, posting the ball, throwing it to 15 feet, backing you down, making you make decisions,” Calipari explained, recognizing why his team enters as underdogs in this Sweet 16 matchup.
SWEET 16 BETTING PREVIEW: NO. 10 SEED ARKANSAS VS. NO. 3 SEED TEXAS TECH
The Razorbacks have overcome adversity throughout their season. They started 0-5 in conference play before rallying to reach the Sweet 16. This resilience gives them confidence heading into Thursday’s game, regardless of Thiero’s final playing status.
As game time approaches, Arkansas fans will be watching closely for any updates on Thiero’s availability, hoping the three-year veteran can contribute even limited minutes in what promises to be a highly competitive Sweet 16 contest.
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