Arkansas Basketball Preview 2021

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Nov 4

Our Arkansas basketball preview 2021 - 22 observes that last season was special and exciting for the Razorbacks. First, the team won 12 of 13 games down the stretch. They finished second in the SEC with a conference record of 13-4 and overall mark of 25-7. In the SEC Tournament, Arkansas reached the semifinals and then the Elite Eight at the Big Dance. In the NCAA Tournament, they lost to the future champs the Baylor Bears. For head coach Eric Musselman (45-19 Arkansas/2 years, 155-53 Overall/6 years) and his team, it was quite a ride. Can they do better this year? There’s promise as four core players from last season return. Coming back are guards J.D Notae and Davonte Davis and forwards Jaylin Williams and Connor Vanover.

Razorbacks Tide Frontcourt

Although two important frontcourt players return, there is a huge loss in the paint. That’s Justin Smith who averaged 13.6 PPG and 7.3 RPG. Our Arkansas basketball preview 2021 - 22 notes that the smart, quick two-way player will be tough to replace. He did it all. As noted, 6’10” Williams does return. Over the course of last season, as he became a stronger, more confident player, his minutes increased. Williams proved to be a premium passer and tough rebounder with a 47.8 percent field-goal success rate. Vanover, a deadeye free-throw shooter, is expected to return in better condition and sporting improved stamina. Additionally, his three-pointer, which hit 32.4 percent of the time, should be improved. Little Rock transfer Kamani Johnson could add points.

Arkansas Basketball Preview – Backcourt

Notae, who won the SEC’s Sixth Man of the Year Award, averaged 12.8 PPG while shooting 38.2 percent from the floor. Overall, his shot selection and shooting percentages need to be better. Davis, a 47.6 percent shooter from the field, was good for 8.5 PPG and 4.5 RPG. He’s also a fine defensive player. Transfer Chris Lykes (Miami, FL) is a serious shooting threat while Khalen Robinson has a fine shot and excellent assist potential. Both players missed substantial time last season due to injury. However, they are now game ready.