The NCAA Tournament isn't just another game on the calendar for the Kansas Jayhawks and the Arkansas Razorbacks; it's an opportunity to revive their respective seasons. On Thursday, March 20, 2025, the stage is set at the Amica Mutual Pavilion in Providence, Rhode Island, where the No. 7 seed Jayhawks (21-12) face off against the No. 10 seed Razorbacks (20-13) at 7:10 p.m. ET. Both teams are coming into this matchup after seasons marked by highs and lows, yet they remain hopeful for a deep tournament run.
For Arkansas, the journey has been tumultuous. Coach John Calipari’s squad started off with a promising 11-2 record before hitting a wall with an 0-5 skid in Southeastern Conference (SEC) play. Just when all seemed lost, the Razorbacks rallied to finish with a 5-1 record, securing their spot in the tournament despite a notably tough SEC, the only conference with 14 teams represented in the tournament. This resilience could be pivotal for them as they face Kansas, a team they've defeated in their most recent matchup, 72-71, during the second round of last year's tournament.
Kansas, on the other hand, entered the season with high expectations as a preseason No. 1. However, the Jayhawks faced similar struggles, finishing their regular season with a disappointing 21-12 record. They too stumbled through some critical moments, highlighted by a rough 6-7 finish. Nonetheless, Kansas boasts a strong NCAA Tournament resume, holding a 112-49 all-time record in the event and being 47-5 in first-round games. The Jayhawks have made 31 Sweet 16 appearances and have claimed four national championships.
As the teams prepare to meet, both head coaches acknowledge the strengths and challenges ahead. Reflecting on the previous exhibition match, which Kansas lost 85-69 in October, the players expressed eagerness to seize the rematch. “We’re a different team than the last time we played them,” said Jayhawks senior guard Zeke Mayo, who recalls Arkansas's athleticism and physicality. Coach Bill Self echoed this sentiment, highlighting the need for his players to step up: “Drawing Arkansas is tough, but we deserve this challenge at our seed.”
Statistically, both teams have shown promise. Arkansas has a notable No. 20 defensive efficiency ranking, while Kansas is ranked 11th nationally in defense. The Jayhawks average 76.2 points per game, relying on standout performances from players like Hunter Dickinson, who leads the team with 17.6 points and 10.0 rebounds per game. Meanwhile, Arkansas will look to Adou Thiero and Boogie Fland—once both ruled out due to injury—return and significantly contribute to their offensive push.
In terms of game strategy, Arkansas aims to leverage its ability to transition quickly and score. They will need to find success from beyond the arc, as they managed to hit ten or more threes just five times this season. Kansas, showing a more controlled approach, is known for its defense, often limiting opponents to fewer than 74 points, a feat they’ve accomplished in 18 of their 33 games this season.
The two teams will go head-to-head on the hardwood, with the winner poised to face either the second-seeded St. John's or the 15th-seeded Omaha in the upcoming round, prompting added incentive for both to forge ahead. As anticipated, predictions are rolling in, with betting lines swinging slightly in favor of the Jayhawks at -4.5. The matchup's point total is set at 145.5, suggesting that fans can expect an engaging offensive display.
Fan expectations are high, especially considering both teams have faced immense pressure. Kansas, in particular, is seeking to make a statement after their preseason hype failed to translate into consistent performance. Coach Self’s experienced core, which includes players like Dajuan Harris and KJ Adams—both part of the 2022 national championship team—can draw on their past experiences as they face the determined Razorbacks.
As the tournament progresses, it’s important to recognize what each team brings to the court: Arkansas’s will to push against odds and Kansas’s need to reclaim their former glory from the season's early days. The Razorbacks, with their intense drive, may rally their way to an upset, but the Jayhawks cannot underestimate their past victories and strengths. The final outcome remains a mystery yet to unfold as both teams stake their claim for success.
Basketball fans will be tuned in as the action unfolds. Will Kansas reclaim its title of dominance, or will Arkansas shock the field once again?
