PROVIDENCE, R.I. — The Arkansas Razorbacks are on a remarkable journey as they secure a spot in the Sweet 16 after overcoming staggering odds, defeating the St. John’s Red Storm 75-66 in a thrilling matchup that took place on March 22, 2025. The Razorbacks' victory not only snapped St. John’s impressive 10-game winning streak but also marked a significant milestone for coach John Calipari, who found himself on a redemption arc after a dismal 0-5 start in SEC play this season.
Two months ago, the idea of Arkansas making it to the Sweet 16 felt like a distant dream. Critics labeled Calipari's coaching style as outdated, and external expectations were low. However, with grit and determination, his team has pushed past their early setbacks, reeling off several key victories in the Mountain West Conference and rallying the Razorbacks to a 25-year drought-ending success in the NCAA Tournament.
The encounter with St. John’s signaled not only the end of Rick Pitino’s season but also a moment of triumph for Calipari and the team. Before this victory, St. John’s had only lost four games by an aggregate of just seven points throughout the season, making this defeat particularly stinging for them. For Arkansas, however, it was a chance to seize their moment, underscoring their resolve to get back to the NCAA Tournament's later stages.
After the win, Calipari, who is in his 33rd season and now 66 years old, donned a red Razorbacks t-shirt instead of his usual coaching attire, a symbolic moment as his team celebrated their hard-earned victory in the locker room. As assistant Chin Coleman was chased with a water bottle by Zvonimir Ivisic, a sense of camaraderie and joy echoed throughout the locker room as the team prepared for their next challenge against Texas Tech. Reflecting on the win, Calipari remarked, “Look, I’ve done this a long time. I’ve never had a more rewarding season.” He credited his team’s character and upbringing for their perseverance, saying that they have come together as a “heartbeat” to reach this point.
The Razorbacks' journey, despite the challenges faced, is a testament to their tenacity. Players like D.J. Wagner expressed the pride they felt in their accomplishments, noting their roller coaster of experiences throughout the season. “We went through a lot of ups and downs, but now we’re here, so we’re definitely going to celebrate this one,” Wagner stated, grateful to be part of a team with tremendous potential.
Arkansas's success is even more remarkable considering their earlier struggles, including a narrow loss to Kansas earlier in the tournament. The stakes are now higher as they prepare to face Texas Tech, a team that has its own share of injuries and challenges. Calipari and his players will face off against a Red Raiders team that recently triumphed over Drake with a solid 77-64 finish.
In their last encounter, Texas Tech is ranked as a 5.5-point favorite leading into their showdown, reflecting their strong performance in the Big 12 Conference. Analysts are predicting a competitive matchup, acknowledging the talent on both sides. As both teams strive for a spot in the Elite Eight, Calipari’s team is gearing up for a thrilling contest at the Chase Center in San Francisco.
As anticipation builds, Calipari recognizes the importance of this moment not just for him as a coach, but for the players who have worked tirelessly to prove their worth. “It’s just been a rough couple of years, you know?” said Megan Calipari, his daughter, sharing her feelings of vindication for her father amidst all the scrutiny they faced during his time at Kentucky. “I feel so happy for him that he can prove so many people wrong.”
With the NCAA Tournament's viewership figures soaring, Arkansas basketball is back in the limelight. The primetime window highlighted by the Razorbacks' earlier games drew in 12.2 million viewers, confirming that March Madness continues to captivate the nation. These impressive statistics reflect the growing excitement surrounding college basketball and will only intensify as Arkansas prepares for their next matchup.
As the Razorbacks get ready to take the court against Texas Tech, the game has implications not just for a win but for the broader narrative of redemption and revival that has defined their season. Currently, Arkansas holds a 10-3 record in NCAA tournament play this decade, showcasing a remarkable turnaround from previous years.
The stakes couldn’t be higher, as a win against Texas Tech would propel them into the Elite Eight, eschewing the doubts lingering over their earlier failures and further igniting their passion for postseason success.
This thrilling story, marked by remarkable resilience and teamwork, is set to unfold as Arkansas aims to write a new chapter in its storied basketball history. With significant challenges ahead, the team remains undeterred, fueled by their past hardships and newfound determination to shine on the national stage.
