PROVIDENCE, R.I. – John Calipari’s magic touch is back, but this time it’s ringing with the sound of “Woo Pig Sooie” echoing through the air.
“We thought our season was over at least 10 times,” one ecstatic Arkansas fan yelled as Calipari wrapped up his post-game radio interview. And indeed, for many of the Razorbacks’ loyal supporters who stood waiting, it was a moment of pure celebration. When Calipari finished and removed his headset, the court became a sea of joy – fist bumps, waves, and even an emotional embrace between the coach and his family.
After navigating the storm of criticism, a shocking 0-5 start in SEC play, and facing the harsh reality of near-elimination, this was a moment of redemption. “We’ve been through a lot this year,” Calipari said, recalling the journey. “After an 0-5 start, we were given just a 2% chance to make the tournament. And now, not only did we make it, we’re advancing.”
And advance they did – with a stunning 75-66 upset over Rick Pitino’s St. John’s, who had been on a magical run all season. Arkansas turned up the heat, suffocating the Red Storm with a defense that looked like a national powerhouse. They held St. John’s to an abysmal 28% shooting and a dismal 2-of-22 from three-point range. It was a defensive clinic on a grand stage.
Arkansas freshman Billy Richmond III embodied the Razorbacks’ relentless spirit, stepping up with a career-high 16 points and nine rebounds, including a clutch baseline jumper with less than three minutes left that gave the Hogs a 68-64 lead. It was a moment of pure basketball brilliance. DJ Wagner then sealed the deal with a powerful drive, and the Razorbacks were headed to the next round.
The Razorbacks showed a level of physicality rarely seen against St. John’s. After closing the first half on a 7-0 run, they opened the second half with an 18-9 surge, dominating the paint with 16 points and drawing fouls at will. “We’ve never faced a team with this much length and athleticism,” Pitino admitted, but the truth was, St. John’s simply couldn’t match Arkansas’ intensity.
Pitino’s squad, despite their high-profile season, couldn’t find their rhythm. Big East Player of the Year RJ Luis struggled with a dismal 3-of-17 shooting performance, and inexplicably, sat out the final 5 minutes. Meanwhile, St. John’s had just five assists all game, unable to break down Arkansas’ tough defense or match their athleticism.
“We’re physical too,” Calipari reminded his players, and it was clear that his team had embraced the challenge, outmuscling St. John’s from start to finish. For Calipari, this victory was more than just a win. It was a statement – not just for Arkansas, but for him personally. Just last year, his Kentucky Wildcats were sent packing early from the tournament, and three years ago, they were shocked by Saint Peter’s. But now, in Fayetteville, a fresh start has led to a remarkable resurgence.
“It’s been an incredibly rewarding year,” Calipari reflected. “We’ve come so far, and it’s not just about advancing. It’s about seeing these kids grow through all the adversity they’ve faced. Sometimes you’ve got to go through the fire to come out stronger on the other side.”
As a coach used to leading elite teams, playing the underdog role was unfamiliar territory. But on this night, Arkansas embraced the challenge and pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the tournament, denying St. John’s their first Sweet 16 trip since 1999. After four close losses, all by a combined seven points, the Razorbacks beat the Red Storm by 9 – proving that they could not only compete with the best but dominate them at their own game.
For Calipari, this victory meant more than a simple Round of 32 win. It was the culmination of a journey filled with hardship, uncertainty, and doubt. And now, with tears in his eyes and hope in his heart, the coach and his Razorbacks have defied the odds, carving a path to the Sweet 16, and giving the Arkansas faithful a reason to believe in the impossible.
