Arkansas' Jones, Hall To Transfer

(March 15, 2018 - Source: Gregory Shamus/Getty Images North America)

According to multiple reports, freshman Darious Hall and sophomore CJ Jones have been granted their release from Arkansas and will transfer.

Hall appeared in 35 games for the Razorbacks averaging 5.1 points and 3.1 rebounds, while shooting 50-percent from the floor and 40-percent from three.

Jones, appeared in 35 games averaging 6.3 points per game, while shooting 37-percent from three. Hall and Jones combined made up around 28 minutes of Mike Anderson's rotation and after already losing both of his leading scorers to graduation, coach Anderson will have some gaps to fill.

Mike Anderson Leaves Missouri for Arkansas

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

After claiming he would stay at Missouri as their head coach, Mike Anderson has decided to leave the Tigers and take the head coaching job at Arkansas.

Anderson spent 17 years as an assistant at Arkansas previously under his mentor Nolan Richardson. After Richardson was fired for controversial statement, Anderson finished out the season.

During the off-season, Anderson failed to fill the head coaching vacancy after interviewing for the job, instead, Arkansas went with Stan Heath.

Anderson then went to coach at UAB, and then on to Missouri.

Anderson spent five years at Missouri and gave Mizzou fans a reason to cheer during basketball season.

He's had a winning record all five years at Mizzou, and three NCAA tournament appearances to go along with an Elite Eight berth.

Coach Anderson was in talks with Missouri about an additional two years to his contract and a raise, but the talks were withdrawn and, in the end, Anderson received a 200K raise and his 'dream job.'

"He was happy. You always want someone to be happy. You do what's best for you. Going to Arkansas was what's best for coach Anderson," said junior Laurence Bowers.

Anderson has once again took over an underachieving program but is confident he can turn things around. "I am extremely excited to once again be a part of this special university and Razorback athletics," Anderson said.

"With continued passionate support of all Razorback fans, I am confident that we will have the opportunity to succeed on and off the court and continue to build on the University of Arkansas' championship tradition."

Arkansas' recruiting class was nabbed as an top-10 recruiting class by many recruiting outlets. His first major job is keeping that talented recruiting class in-tact.

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John Pelphrey Should Have Gotten More Time

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

March 13, 2011 was the day the Arkansas Razorbacks (18-13, 7-9) fired head coach John Pelphrey.

Coach Pelphrey started off hot at Arkansas, leading the Razorbacks to the second round of the NCAA tournament in his first year with the program.

Since then, Pelphrey had losing records during conference play and never was invited back to the big dance.

In his four seasons at Arkansas, Pelphrey accumulated a record of (69-59, 25-39).

Jeff Long, the athletic director at Arkansas said, "I wanted to give John [Pelphrey] every chance possibly."

"I felt like four years was fair to John [Pelphrey] given the situation he took over and given the commitment that was made to him when he arrived here."

Granted, four years is enough time to turn a program around or, at least, show improvement and that's exactly what coach Pelphrey was steering towards.

Even before his days at Arkansas, it took him three years before making a positive move in the Sun Belt Conference.

But, with patience, coach Pelphrey turned South Alabama into one of the most competitive teams in the Sun Belt conference.

Pelphrey could of had the same success at Arkansas if AD Jeff Long was patient with the process.

"Obviously, I would've liked more time," Pelphrey said. "It takes time to build stability in a program. Every situation is different."

Coach Pelphrey has a point. Despite not making much noise in College Basketball since his first season, coach Pelphrey was on the verge of bringing in one of the top recruiting classes in the country.

Usually, when a firing occurs, recruits want to reopen their commitment. However, the Arkansas recruiting class, according to Arkansas Online, are looking to wait it out and see who will replace Pelphrey.

Just the thought of possibly losing commitment after securing a top-10 recruiting class is disturbing.

If Athletic Director Long allows Pelphrey more time, Arkansas could be looking at a top-25 ranking and possibly continual tournament bids.

Pelphrey's recruiting efforts made his rant for more time realistic. Coach Pelphrey was a fine coach and just needed more time to establish himself in the SEC conference.

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Antwan Space Leaning Towards Arkansas

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

The biggest surprise the September has been the recruiting efforts by John Pelphrey and the Arkansas Razorbacks staff.

Last season, the Razorbacks didn't seem to be a dominant program, on the court, or in the recruiting trails.

However, the Razorbacks have reshaped the program and attacked the recruiting trails hard.

Antwan Space, a 6-foot-7 forward from DeSoto, Texas continues to quietly enlighten his game.

Space, a member of the 2011 recruiting class has yet to commit to any team, but according to sources he is a future Razorback. Not to mention, after the Great American Shootout Space said "I love the Hogs."

"The staff has been great and they are putting together an outstanding recruiting class."

The recruiting class that could feature Space along with many other recruits such as B.J. Young, Ky Madden, Aaron Ross, Hunter Mickelson, and Devonta Abron.

He had a visit set up for Arkansas but canceled to play in the GASO.

Nonetheless, the Arkansas Razorbacks can acquire their sixth commitment from a highly-rated recruit. Space loves the program and the recruiting efforts. Next thing to do is join the 2011 recruiting class.

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Devonta Abron Commits to Arkansas

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

The Arkansas Razorbacks 2011 recruiting class is special. The Razorbacks embrace two of the best guards in the country, not to mention, a highly-touted forward in Aaron Ross, and post threat in Hunter Mickelson.

Four days after Rashad "Ky" Madden announced his intentions to join the Razorbacks 2011 recruiting class, Devonta Abron did the same.

Abron, a 6-foot-9 power forward from Dallas, Texas joins arguably one of the best recruiting classes this year.

Abron will benefit the Razorbacks in many ways. His frame is ideal, and he embraces overhauling strength that presents mix matches in the post. Not to mention, he has long arms that commend well on both ends of the floor.

He can block shots, rebound, intimidate, and jump up and catch the entry pass. His leaping ability presents problems for the defense as well.

Abron is still raising the recruiting boards, but the Razorbacks grasp a solid low post threat. Abron chose Arkansas over Alabama, Florida International, Houston, North Texas, Oklahoma State, and Texas A&M.

He joins a loaded 2011 class that features B.J. Young, Madden, Ross, and Mickelson.

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Ky Madden Commits to Arkansas

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

Ky Madden, a 6-foot-5 shooting guard gave the Arkansas Razorbacks their fourth verbal commitment of the 2011 recruiting class.

Madden brings intensity from both ends of the floor. Out of the backcourt, he plays like a forward. He has great size, which he uses well when it comes to the defensive side of the ball. He times things perfectly, and his decision-making pays off big time.

Out the backcourt, he brings a physical, lean 200 pound frame. He drives the lane and finishes strong with contact.

He is a great guard that strives on both ends of the floor. Nonetheless, he still needs to work on his dribble-drive penetration, as well as his jump shot.

Madden joins B.J Young, Aaron Ross and Hunter Mickelson as future Razorbacks.

With the four recruits collectively, Arkansas' 2011 recruiting class fits the description of a top-five team.

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B.J Young To Arkansas Means No Ky Madden?

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

Ky Madden, a native of Arkansas, has been watched by Coach John Pelphrey closely. Before his emergence, Madden reportedly told sources he had a top two of Ole Miss and Arkansas. However, with his progression, more schools have called, and he opened up his recruitment.

Madden, a 6-foot-5 shooting guard, has great physical tools to succeed. According to his father, his son has no favorite, but does plan to visit schools before announcing his discretion.

UConn will be first, September 8-10, Baylor, September 11th, then Ole Miss and Arkansas. Since Arkansas and Ole Miss are close to home, Madden isn't so sure about the dates, but did say either the 17th or 24th of September.

However, seeing that B.J. Young announced his decision to be a Razorback, Madden seems out of reach.

Madden plays the same position as Young. He has the physical abilities, scoring mentality and continues to create buzz that recruiters like. 

Madden does have a dark-side that many recruiters would like to throw to the side. His temper continues to flare on court, and that throws red flags to many programs.

Nonetheless, Madden is too talented to pass up if you’re any college program. But trying to acquire both Madden and Young will be tougher than adding Quincy Miller to an already stacked Kentucky recruiting class.

Don't count it out. With the progression of Young, I assume he will make his way to the point guard position before the end of his senior year in High School. With that, Young could be placed at the lead position in the backcourt, which opens up room for Madden on the wing.

Collectively with Madden and Young, Arkansas can be dominant. But don't expect to see them together. It's tough trying to acquire two highly touted recruits that play the same position. Don't forget, it has happened!

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B.J. Young Brings Another Meaning To Arkansas' 2011 Recruiting Class

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

There is no question about who has the best 2011 recruiting class. John Calipari and the Kentucky Wildcats have grabbed the top spot once again. However, that isn't stopping other programs from recruiting top-tier talent.

For example, look at the job Arkansas has done with their 2011 recruiting class. The Razorbacks acquired highly-touted forwards Aaron Ross and Hunter Mickelson, before the latest acquisition of scoring threat B.J. Young.

Young, a 6-foot-3 guard from Missouri, added Kansas and Memphis to his recruitment September 1st, but according to ESPN, he liked Arkansas better. "I just felt it was the best fit for me," Young told ESPN.

Now, with Young, Ross and Mickelson verbally committing, the Razorbacks grasp the chance to compete in the SEC.

Ross and Mickelson will bolster the frontcourt, while Young commends their duties in the backcourt. Not to mention, assuming Courtney Fortson stays for his senior season, the two could produce a deadly backcourt tandem. Now mix that with the wing threat of Ross, the low-post option of Mickelson, and you have a significant starting lineup.

Don't assume the recruiting will stop after the acquisition of Young. The Razorbacks still have recruits that consider their program.

It wouldn't be surprising to see more highly-touted recruits signify the 2011 recruiting class for the Razorbacks.

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2011 College Basketball Recruiting Report: Arkansas Razorbacks

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

Andy Lyons/Getty Images

The most memorable game the Razorbacks had last season happened against the Mississippi State Bulldogs. Sophomore guard Courtney Fortson accumulated 35 points and the Razorbacks got passed the Bulldogs.

Nonetheless, winning a game over the Bulldogs was just about the only impressive outing they had this season.

The loss of Michael Washington still hurts the Razorbacks. However, I think they'll have fun with the recruits they nabbed in the 2011 class.

Verbal Commitments

F Hunter Mickelson 6'9''

Mickelson is a very agile forward. His long athletic 6-foot-9 frame will be an instant plus for the Razorbacks in the post. He will influence on offense as well as defense. His key trait is his ability to run in transition. Mickelson is very athletic so when running on the break you know he will be right there with you.

F Aaron Ross 6'8''

Ross will be a huge addition on the wing. He has the ability to make precise cuts as well as finish in the lane. He can also make mid-range jumpers and work in the post. He brings another dimension to the Razorbacks that they missed last season.

Considering Arkansas

*G Ky Madden

The Arkansas native could stay in his hometown to play basketball.

G Cedrick McAfee

McAfee seems like he is pushing towards the Volunteers. However, Arkansas is still in his recruiting.

F Keaton Miles

Georgia Tech seems like his leader. Kentucky is in the mix as well. However, the Razorbacks are not huge players.

F Wayne Martin

Martin is piling up offers. His recruitment is wide open but Arkansas is showing little interest.

*F Braeden Anderson

Anderson is in reach of the Razorbacks. They are showing a lot of interest in the 6-foot-8 forward.

F Adonis Thomas

Memphis or Tennessee? But don't count the Razorbacks out.

C Johnny O'Bryant

O'Bryant seems like a long shot for the Razorbacks

C Trey McDonald

McDonald's recruitment is wide open. He is still requiring offers and it's hard to tell where he could actually land.

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