Arkansas Razorbacks Dominate Pacific Tigers Amid Sparse Crowd
The Arkansas Razorbacks, now 3-1 under new head coach John Calipari, delivered an impressive 91-72 win over the Pacific Tigers Monday night at Bud Walton Arena. While the team showed flashes of brilliance, a noticeably subdued crowd cast a shadow over an otherwise stellar performance.
Adou Thiero Takes Center Stage
Forward Adou Thiero had a breakout night, leading all scorers with 23 points on a hyper-efficient 8-of-10 from the field. Thiero’s six dunks electrified the atmosphere and kept the Tigers’ defense on its heels.
“We knew we had to step up with some of our guys out,” Thiero said after the game. “Coach told us to keep attacking, and that’s what we did. It felt good to make plays when it counted.”
Thiero wasn’t the only standout. Boogie Fland added 20 points, showing off his three-level scoring ability, while Zvonimir Ivišić chipped in 15 points and 7 rebounds, proving that Arkansas’ depth can weather injuries to key players like Trevon Brazile and Jonas Aidoo.
Calipari’s Defense Shines
The Razorbacks’ defensive identity continues to take shape under Calipari’s leadership. Arkansas forced 17 turnovers, leading to 22 points, and held Pacific to 40% shooting from the floor—a benchmark the team is striving for each game.
“Our goal is always to make it tough for the other team to get into any rhythm,” Calipari explained postgame. “We were able to force them into bad shots and capitalize on their mistakes, even though we had to make some adjustments with a short rotation.”
A pivotal moment came in the second half when Arkansas clamped down, holding Pacific scoreless for more than 10 minutes. That stretch featured 13 consecutive misses by the Tigers, effectively sealing the game for the Razorbacks.
Sparse Attendance Raises Eyebrows
Despite the team’s ranked status and exciting play, Bud Walton Arena wasn’t its usual fortress. Attendance was noticeably low, leaving fans and players to question what might be behind the lack of energy.
“We’re grateful for everyone who came out, but we’ve got to bring our own fire, no matter what,” said Calipari. “When the stands aren’t full, it’s up to us to create the atmosphere.”
Thiero echoed his coach’s sentiment, adding,
“It’s a little weird, but once the game starts, we’re locked in. Whether it’s 20,000 or 200, we’re playing for each other.”
Key Plays Energize the Crowd
Even with fewer fans, the Razorbacks delivered moments of brilliance. Thiero’s rim-rocking dunks and Fland’s deep triples were highlights, but it was the team’s defensive hustle that truly set the tone. Every steal and block brought the crowd to its feet, reminding everyone why Bud Walton is a special venue—even on a quiet night.
Looking Ahead
With the win, Arkansas moves to 3-1 and prepares for their next game against the Little Rock Trojans on Friday, November 22, at Bud Walton Arena. As the team works to get healthy and develop chemistry, Calipari remains focused on building consistency.
“We’re still figuring out who we are,” Calipari said. “It’s a long season, and these early games are all about growth. Tonight, we showed resilience, but there’s a lot more work to do.”
The Bigger Picture
The Razorbacks’ performance against Pacific proved that they have the talent and discipline to compete, even under less-than-ideal circumstances. As the team regains its health and the crowds return, Arkansas could become one of the most dangerous squads in the country. For now, the Hogs are grinding, showing that their fight goes beyond the final score.
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