The NCAA Tournament's second round brings a matchup for the ages as No. 10 Arkansas (21-13) prepares to face No. 2 St. John’s (31-4) on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 2:40 p.m. ET in Providence. This highly anticipated game will showcase two legendary coaches and their storied programs in what promises to be an intense battle on the hardwood.
Streetwise and battle-tested, Arkansas overcame a challenging first-round opponent, outlasting Kansas with a score of 79-72. The Razorbacks fought through adversity this season, losing key players to injuries, including Adou Thiero, who missed the first round. However, the timely return of Boogie Fland was crucial, as he provided essential minutes that helped Arkansas solidify its spot in the tournament's second round. This victory marked a significant milestone for first-year Arkansas head coach John Calipari, who secured his first NCAA Tournament win with the program.
St. John's also demonstrated resilience in their first-round matchup, overcoming Omaha thanks to their relentless effort and hard work on the court. Despite struggling with their shooting percentages, the Red Storm thrived on rebounds and second-chance opportunities, which exemplifies the essence of coach Rick Pitino’s approach. Pitino, now 72, has long been noted for fostering a gritty, defensive style of play, evoking tough competition and high expectations from his players.
Coaches Calipari and Pitino share a rich history that adds another layer of intrigue to this matchup. Years ago, Calipari was just a camper at the legendary Five-Star Basketball Camp, where Pitino served as a counselor. The two have since become fierce rivals in the world of college basketball, bringing their unique coaching philosophies to the tournament’s grand stage. “They’re a team that’s going to be prepared. They’re going to play hard. They’re going to play rough. It’s going to be bump-and-grind. You’re not getting a free layup without getting bumped. That’s [Pitino’s] teams,” Calipari remarked, illustrating the style of play that has become synonymous with St. John’s basketball.
In return, Pitino praised the Razorbacks, stating, “[Arkansas] has a great lineup. Their size is what’s imposing. They can step out and do so many things. They’re quite impressive.” This reciprocal respect signals the high stakes on the line as both teams eye a spot in the next round of the tournament.
Heading into this crucial game, Arkansas must focus on a few keys to victory. Securing defensive rebounds will be paramount, especially against a St. John’s team that relies heavily on offensive rebounding and converting second-chance opportunities. Arkansas also needs to avoid foul trouble, as their depth issues could become their Achilles' heel against the high-energy and aggressive squad led by Pitino. The Razorbacks have the shooting edge, so capitalizing on this will also be a focal point, especially in preventing St. John’s from controlling the tempo of the game.
On the flip side, St. John’s defense becomes an imposing presence on the court. Although they may not have the best shooting statistics, their defensive efficiency and the ability to wear opponents down is a cornerstone of their strategy. As seen in their opener against Omaha, their relentless pressure causes difficulties for teams not accustomed to such high intensity. Moreover, their commitment to forcing turnovers and maintaining a high energy level throughout the game allows them to dictate the pace, often causing opponents to falter in late-game scenarios.
As the excitement builds for this matchup, one thing is clear: we are in for a battle of adjustments. With both teams bringing toughness and competitive edge, only one will advance to the next round of the NCAA Tournament. Fans and analysts alike will keep a close eye on the intricacies of the strategies employed by both coaches, knowing that every possession could change the course of the game.
In a contest showcasing not only the potential of the young talent on each roster but also the coaching prowess of two of the sport's greatest minds, the stage is set for an electrifying encounter. Tune in Saturday at 2:40 p.m. ET on CBS to witness this historic showdown between Arkansas and St. John’s.
