The Hoop Hogs advanced to the second round of the NCAA Tournament with a 79-72 win over Kansas, while St. John’s dominated Omaha 83-53. The Razorbacks will now face another Hall of Fame coach in Rick Pitino as they take on the Red Storm.
Previewing St. John’s
St. John’s has had an impressive season in its second year under Pitino, boasting a 31-4 record and winning both the Big East regular-season and tournament titles. The Red Storm average 78.7 points per game while shooting 45.1% from the field, 30.4% from three-point range, and 68.9% from the free-throw line. They are led by guard RJ Luis Jr., who averages 18.5 points per game while shooting 44.8% from the field, 74.7% from the free-throw line, and 34.3% from deep.
Zuby Ejiofor anchors St. John’s defense, averaging eight rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game. Kadary Richmond is also a key contributor, averaging 12.7 points, a team-high 5.4 assists, and 2.1 steals per game. The Red Storm are strong on the boards, averaging 40.9 rebounds per game while also causing problems defensively with 9.2 steals and 5.2 blocks per contest.
Previewing the Hogs
The Hogs have battled injuries all season but are getting healthier at the right time. Freshman Boogie Fland returned in the win over Kansas, contributing six points and making an impact defensively with three steals, including one that led to a crucial late-game transition basket. Adou Thiero, who has been sidelined, could potentially return against St. John’s.
Jonas Aidoo has been playing his best basketball since recovering from an offseason injury, scoring 22 points with three steals and three blocks while nearly playing the entire game against Kansas. Johnell Davis, who dealt with a wrist injury earlier in the season, has stepped up for the Hogs, scoring in double figures in the last five games.
Coaching Preview
Pitino and Arkansas coach John Calipari will renew their coaching rivalry in this matchup of Hall of Famers. The two previously faced off in the heated Louisville-Kentucky rivalry from 2009-17.
Broadcast Information
Time: 1:40 p.m. CST
Date: March 22
Location: Amica Mutual Pavilion, Providence, R.I.
TV: CBS