Arkansas’ basketball team has seen a significant improvement in its shooting over the past few weeks, thanks to a combination of persistence in practice and key lineup changes. The Razorbacks, once struggling with poor shooting numbers early in the season, have worked their way up to a solid three-point shooting percentage of 37.2%, ranking sixth in the SEC and 65th nationally.
The early struggles were evident, with Arkansas shooting a mere 22% from beyond the arc in their first three games, including a 2-for-11 performance against Troy. Head coach John Calipari even joked post-game about the team’s shooting, calling it potentially the worst he’s seen. However, after that moment, the Razorbacks made major strides.
The team’s recent success can be credited to consistent effort in practice, according to assistant coach Chuck Martin. “They’ve been really putting the work into it,” Martin said, noting that the team’s progress is now starting to show results. Over the past four games, Arkansas has shot 41.9% from three, a mark that would rank second nationally if sustained.
Another key factor in the Razorbacks’ improvement is the addition of two near-7-foot players, Jonas Aidoo and Tevon Brazile, to the lineup. Their presence in the post has drawn defensive attention, opening up better shooting opportunities from the perimeter. Martin highlighted the success of the post offense, with Aidoo’s ability to draw double teams leading to effective ball movement and better looks for the shooters.
The Razorbacks will look to continue this shooting momentum in their upcoming game against North Carolina A&T on Saturday. With their offense finding its rhythm and defense also tightening up, the Hogs will aim to keep their hot streak alive heading into the final stretch of non-conference play.
