Alyssa Orange previewing Razorbacks’ Super Regional matchup this weekend
With Volunteers coming to town, lots of surprises in NCAA Regionals but not counting on anything but highly-contested series between Dave Van Horn and Tony Vitello.
Nashville Sports Radio’s Bill King previewing Razorbacks-Vols this weekend
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – It may be a clash of SEC titans and Bill King of WNSR brought his insight to ESPN Arkansas Halftime, dissecting every angle of Tennessee’s matchup with Arkansas.
This best-of-three series is more than just a ticket to Omaha—it’s a collision of two programs with recent history, surging talent, and immense expectations.
King opened by acknowledging the electric atmosphere expected at Baum-Walker Stadium, emphasizing that Arkansas’ home-field advantage could play a pivotal role.
The Razorbacks, seeded No. 3, have been dominant at home and carry a 12-3 record against Tennessee in their last 15 meetings, including a regular-season series win in Fayetteville.
King pointed out that this psychological edge, combined with the crowd’s energy, could tip the scales in Arkansas’ favor.
However, King cautioned against underestimating the Volunteers.
Tennessee, fresh off a gritty 11-5 win over Wake Forest to clinch their Super Regional berth.
King highlighted lefty ace Liam Doyle, who threw 31 high-leverage pitches to close out the Demon Deacons, and noted the impact of starting catcher Cannon Peebles’ ejection, which will force the Vols to adjust their lineup for Game 1.
“Tennessee’s bullpen has been tested, but their ability to respond under pressure is what makes them dangerous,” King said.
Delving into the matchup specifics, King praised Arkansas’ balanced attack, referencing their explosive power hitting and deep pitching staff that propelled them past Creighton in the Regional round.
He singled out players like Cam Kozeal, whose clutch hitting has been vital, and pointed to the Razorbacks’ ability to manufacture runs in key situations.
“Arkansas has shown they can win with the long ball or by stringing together hits, and that versatility is crucial in postseason baseball,” King said.
King also addressed the broader stakes.
Van Horn is seeking to silence critics who point to the program’s near-misses in Omaha.
Meanwhile, Tony Vitello’s Volunteers are aiming to become the first team to repeat as national champions since South Carolina in 2010-11.
“Both coaches have something to prove—Van Horn wants to get the monkey off his back, and Vitello is chasing history,” King said.
As the segment wrapped up, King predicted a hard-fought series likely to go the distance.
He underscored that the outcome could hinge on which team best manages its pitching staff and handles high-pressure moments.
“In a series like this, it often comes down to execution and poise,” King said. “Both teams have the talent, but the one that stays composed and capitalizes on mistakes will punch their ticket to Omaha.”
First pitch scheduled for Saturday at 4 p.m. on ESPN. Weather may play a factor with rain in the forecast for the weekend.
Fans can listen to the game on ESPN Arkansas 95.3 in the River Valley, 96.3 in Hot Springs and 104.3 in Harrison-Mountain Home.
Ruscin & Zach June 3
The stage is set for an epic super regional that a very loud part of the fanbase cares about. It is good vs. evil and the guys have thoughts. Plus what does Bon Jovi have to do with anything? We will try and figure that out along with more tales from Ruscin’s childhood.
Bud Light Morning Rush Podcast: 6-3-25
Super Regional rounds are set, National Egg Day, Arkansas Football lands four star OL commitment.
Guests: Bruce Stanton, Tom Murphy!
Adou Thiero’s NBA Draft stock rises after breakout season with Hogs
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Adou Thiero’s decision to remain in the 2025 NBA Draft marks a key moment for both Arkansas and NBA teams seeking a high-upside defensive specialist.
After a single, standout season with the Razorbacks, Thiero’s blend of size, athleticism, and defensive prowess has positioned him as a late first- or early second-round prospect, with several teams reportedly offering guarantees for a draft selection.
Thiero transferred to the Hogs after two seasons at Kentucky, following head coach John Calipari to Fayetteville.
In his junior year, the 6-foot-8 forward averaged 15.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.6 steals per game, shooting an efficient 54.5% from the field.
His impact was felt on both ends of the floor, leading the Razorbacks in scoring and serving as a catalyst for their late-season surge.
Despite a knee injury that sidelined him for the SEC Tournament and limited his NCAA Tournament minutes, Thiero’s season was widely regarded as a success.
Calipari praised his physical readiness for the NBA.
“If you watch the NBA Playoffs, it is so rough you better be built like Adou Thiero,’ he said. “If you’re not and you’re a younger player, you’re not playing in these playoffs.
“He is physically ready right now and athletically, hits his head on the rim right now. He’s got to heal, but I think he’s in pretty good shape”.
Thiero’s decision to stay in the draft was influenced by strong interest from NBA teams.
According to Razorback reporter Kevin McPherson, Thiero has reportedly secured a second-round guarantee that includes multi-year financial benefits, a significant assurance for any prospect.
“I had a source tell me right before his announcement — maybe a couple of days before — that they’d heard he’d gotten a second-round guarantee,” McPherson said.
This type of commitment typically includes guaranteed money over at least two years, depending on the draft position.
Respected NBA draft analysts have also taken notice. Yahoo Sports’ Kevin O’Connor projected Thiero as the 28th overall pick to the Boston Celtics, highlighting his fit as a potential 3-and-D wing.
“Thiero is a slasher with a jacked frame and an explosive first step, but he has severe limitations on offense as a shooter. If he’s able to figure out the shot, then his length and versatility would make him a classic 3-and-D role player. The Celtics have had good success at improving shooters, so he’d be a fair bet at this spot, considering his other strengths are tailor-made for their system,” O’Connor wrote.
Other mock drafts, including those from ESPN and HoopsHype, have Thiero slotted anywhere from the late first to early second round, citing his two-way potential and developmental upside.
Strengths and Areas for Growth
Strengths:
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Elite Athleticism: Thiero’s explosiveness and quickness make him a threat in transition and a disruptive defender.
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Defensive Versatility: He can guard multiple positions, force turnovers, and rebound at a high level for a wing.
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Physical Tools: With a 7-foot wingspan and NBA-ready frame, he fits the modern mold of a switchable forward.
Areas for Improvement:
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Shooting Consistency: Thiero’s three-point shooting remains a concern, with percentages below 28% from deep and under 60% from the free-throw line.
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Offensive Skill Set: He is not yet a reliable creator or pull-up shooter, often relying on athleticism to score. Scouts note that “bully ball is one thing at the high-major level. It’s harder to be a bully-ball specialist at the next level. You need to add some stuff to that so you’re not so predictable”.
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Decision-Making: At times, Thiero forces plays and can be turnover-prone, especially when pressured.
NBA teams value Thiero’s high motor, defensive intensity, and ability to impact the game without needing the ball.
“Thiero’s physicality, athleticism, motor, and defensive versatility stand out,” As Matt Babcock, NBA Draft Analyst, said. “If he continues to refine his offensive skill set, his value will only rise.”
His ceiling will ultimately depend on the development of his outside shot and ability to round out his offensive game.
If he can become a reliable spot-up shooter and continue to add skill, Thiero could carve out a long-term role as a valuable 3-and-D contributor.
The 2025 NBA Draft will be held over two nights at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, with the first round on June 25 and the second round on June 26.
As the draft approaches, Thiero’s stock remains steady, buoyed by his unique defensive profile and the promise of further development.
Razorbacks, Vols Super Regional clash set for epic Baum-Walker showdown
The stage is set for an electrifying NCAA Super Regional matchup as No. 5 Arkansas (46-13) prepares to host No. 14 Tennessee (46-17) in a best-of-three series at Baum-Walker Stadium, with the winner punching their ticket to the College World Series in Omaha.
The series, scheduled for June 7-9, brings together two of college baseball’s best programs, both fresh off dominant regional performances. Arkansas swept through their regional without a loss, while Tennessee continued their postseason excellence by defeating Wake Forest 11-5 to advance to their fifth consecutive Super Regional.
The matchup features an intriguing subplot between the coaches.
Tennessee’s Tony Vitello, who served as an assistant under Arkansas’s Dave Van Horn, has transformed the Volunteers program into a national powerhouse.
“We know what we’re getting into with Tennessee,” Van Horn said during Monday’s press conference. “They’re playing their best baseball at the right time, and Tony has them prepared for every situation. It’s going to be a battle.”
Baum-Walker Stadium, renowned for its electric atmosphere, is expected to be at full capacity. The venue has been a fortress for the Razorbacks, who consistently rank among college baseball’s attendance leaders.
The stadium’s single-game attendance record of 11,103 could be challenged during this high-stakes series.
Both teams feature powerful offenses and deep pitching staffs.
The Volunteers have shown remarkable resilience in the postseason, extending their NCAA regional winning streak to 14 games.
Meanwhile, Arkansas has dominated at home, leveraging their passionate fan base and the intimidating environment of Baum-Walker Stadium.
The series opener is set for Saturday at 4 p.m. on ESPN, followed by a Sunday afternoon clash at 2 p.m.
If necessary, the decisive third game will be played Monday, with the time to be determined.
Tickets are expected to be in high demand, with a limited quantity of Hog Pen tickets available to the general public and UA students starting Tuesday morning.
Tennessee’s path to Fayetteville included impressive victories over Cincinnati and Wake Forest in the Knoxville Regional.
The Volunteers’ offense has been clicking at the right time, averaging over eight runs per game in regional play.
Their pitching staff has shown depth and resilience, particularly in high-pressure situations.
Arkansas, meanwhile, showcased their championship potential by dominating their regional opponents.
The Razorbacks’ combination of power hitting and strategic small ball has kept opponents off balance, while their pitching staff has consistently delivered quality starts and reliable relief appearances.
The winner of this Super Regional will advance to the College World Series in Omaha, where both programs have rich histories.
Arkansas is seeking their ninth CWS appearance under Van Horn, while Tennessee aims to continue their remarkable postseason run under Vitello.
This series represents more than just a Super Regional matchup — it’s a showcase of SEC baseball excellence, featuring two programs that have helped establish the conference’s dominance in college baseball.
With both teams playing their best baseball of the season and a trip to Omaha on the line, fans can expect an unforgettable weekend of collegiate baseball at its finest.
For those unable to secure tickets, both games will be broadcast nationally on ESPN, bringing the intensity and atmosphere of Baum-Walker Stadium to baseball fans across the country.
As these SEC powerhouses prepare to clash, the road to Omaha runs through Fayetteville, promising three days of compelling baseball that will be remembered for years to come.
Saturday Down South’s Connor O’Gara on SEC football scheduling
Not confident league will go to a nine-game schedule and what it would take for them to get there.
Ruscin & Zach June 2
Arkansas wins the regional and moves to supers. Plus other observations to the first weekend most of America pays attention to the perfectly flawed sport of college baseball.
