FAYETTEVILLE, AR — John Calipari is making waves in his first season with the Arkansas Razorbacks, and it’s clear: this is not just about quick wins—it’s about building something massive.
While the team’s current record might not scream “elite,” make no mistake, the Hogs are setting themselves up for greatness through a relentless focus on the process—and the results are coming.
Calipari, known for his intense competitiveness, has made one thing clear since arriving in Fayetteville: it’s not just about the wins and losses right now, it’s about laying the foundation for long-term success. With a roster that’s undergone a total transformation and new faces stepping up, the Razorbacks are learning and growing together with each game. The “process” isn’t about quick fixes; it’s about sustained excellence.
In a season where teams are already jockeying for position, Calipari has chosen to challenge his players with a grueling schedule. Instead of stacking wins against weaker opponents, Arkansas is going toe-to-toe with potential Elite Eight teams, testing its mettle. Yes, the Razorbacks dropped a tough one to No. 8 Baylor, losing 72-67, but they showed tremendous grit and determination, rallying back in the second half and coming within a 3-pointer of an upset. “It’s more about the process than the results,” Calipari said, as the Hogs battled through a shooting slump to stay competitive against a powerhouse.
But here’s the twist: the Razorbacks are already showing signs of explosive growth. Against Troy, they hit 10 of 23 three-pointers—impressive, especially with 7-foot-2 forward Zvonimir Ivišić lighting it up with 6 of 7 from beyond the arc. While Ivišić’s hot shooting won’t happen every night, it signals the kind of development Calipari is striving for. The team is beginning to gel, confidence is building, and improvement is happening fast. The Razorbacks may not always shoot 43% from three, but as the season progresses, expect these numbers to rise dramatically.
Despite setbacks with injuries and limited practice time, Calipari continues to focus on building the right system for success. It’s a marathon, not a sprint, and the Hogs are starting to click in all the right ways. The road to greatness might be tough, but Arkansas is more than ready for the challenge.
Next up: Pacific at Bud Walton Arena. While the Tigers may not be the toughest test, it’s another chance for the Razorbacks to improve, refine their game, and keep the momentum building toward a massive season. The process is underway—and the Razorbacks are primed for something big.
