FAYETTEVILLE – Adou Thiero and Karter Knox led Arkansas to the second-largest, come-from-behind win (tied) in Bud Walton Arena history, turning a 12-point halftime deficit into a 68-65 victory over Georgia Wednesday night.

More amazing, Arkansas, which took its first lead with 4:40 left, only led for 29 seconds in the game. (NOTE: Almost four years ago to the date, Arkansas trailed Auburn by 12 at halftime, 43-31, only to win 75-73 on Jan. 20, 2021.) Arkansas also played without starting point guard Boogie Fland, who had successful thumb surgery on Wednesday (Jan. 22).

Thiero recorded his fourth career double-double – third this year – with 17 points and 11 rebounds. He also made two of the biggest plays in the win down the stretch. First, he blocked a shot with 1:34 left to keep the game tied. Then, with 30 seconds left, he made a jumper in the paint for a 2-point lead.  Georgia tied the game with 14 seconds left on a pair of free throws by Asa Newell. On Arkansas’ ensuing possession, Thiero grabbed an offensive rebound and was fouled with 1.8 seconds left. He made the first one and missed the second but got his own rebound and putback as the buzzer sounded for the three-point win.

Overall, Thiero scored 11 second-half points (7-of-8 from the free throw line) with six rebounds. Knox scored 2 of his 13 points in the second half, going 10-of-11 at the line.

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Not only were the Razorbacks down 12 at halftime, but the Hogs went down 15 (48-33) with 15:24 left in the second half. From that point, Arkansas trimmed its deficit to 10 points three times over the next three minutes but Georgia answered each time.

Arkansas’ first big run was a 12-2 spurt that was highlighted by an old-fashion 3-point play by Karter Knox to get the Razorbacks to within one (54-53 with 7:51 left). However, Georgia was able to hold the lead over the next three minutes.

Knox gave Arkansas its first tie and lead with two free throws for a 58-58 advantage with 4:40 left. The Bulldogs regained the lead when Silas Demary Jr., made an old-fashion 3-point play to go up 61-59 with 4:29 left.

Neither team scored over the next two minutes until Knox made two free throws. Georgia answered with a RJ Godfrey basket. D.J. Wagner knotted the game at 63 with two free throws and 1:55 left. Neither team scored over the next minute but Johnell Davis made the second-biggest defensive play of the game with a steal with 53 seconds left. From that point, Arkansas called timeout and Theiro took over for the final 30 seconds.

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Davis finished with seven points and three steals.

Georgia was led by Newell’s 18 points and eight rebounds

Arkansas stays home to host Oklahoma on Saturday (Jan. 25) at 7:30 pm (CT).

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DG on the Trading Block?

In Sunday night’s loss to the Hornets, the Mavericks fell 110-105. This heartbreaking loss brings Dallas to losing 9 of their last 12 matchups, leaving their current record at 23-20. This puts them just three games above .500 while missing their franchise guard, Luka Dončić. The Mavericks’ struggles have fueled growing speculation about potential roster changes—with Daniel Gafford at the center of it.

Recent reports suggest that Dallas is open to listening to trade offers for Gafford. Rumors have linked the almost seven-foot center to teams such as the Lakers, Heat, and Bulls, with sources speculating that these franchises could benefit from his defensive prowess and rim protection. It’s worth noting that Gafford is in a contract year, making him an attractive asset for teams looking to bolster their frontcourt. While Dallas has indicated its openness to trade discussions, Gafford’s performance on Sunday was a clear message: he’s not going quietly.

Gaff’s Performance

Despite the loss, Gafford delivered a career-best performance that showcased his ability to dominate on both ends of the court. He recorded 31 points, 15 rebounds, 3 assists, 7 blocks, and 1 steal in 34 minutes of play. Notably, he committed zero turnovers, underscoring his efficiency. Gafford shot an impressive 12-of-15 from the field and was perfect from the free-throw line, going 7-of-7.

Throughout the game, Gafford electrified fans with monstrous blocks and authoritative dunks that carried gravitas. His defensive intensity and offensive precision were on full display, as he consistently found ways to impact the game. Whether swatting shots at the rim or finishing with finesse on the other end, Gafford was a force to be reckoned with.

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The Bigger Picture

Gafford’s standout performance against the Hornets could shift the narrative surrounding his potential trade. While some see him as a valuable trade asset, others argue that Dallas should reconsider parting ways with a player who can anchor their defense and provide a consistent inside presence. With Luka Dončić out, performances like these may remind the Mavericks’ front office of Gafford’s importance to their current roster.

As trade rumors swirl, one thing is clear: Daniel Gafford isn’t letting the noise distract him. If anything, Sunday’s performance was a statement—both to the Mavericks and to the rest of the league—that The Landlord is ready to collect rent, whether it’s in Dallas or elsewhere.

COLUMBIA, MO – Arkansas fought hard to cut into an early deficit but ultimately fell short in an 83-65 loss to Missouri Saturday evening at Mizzou Arena. The Razorbacks trailed by as many as 20 points in the second half but narrowed the gap to 10 twice, the last time with 6:22 remaining. A missed opportunity at the free-throw line stalled their momentum, allowing Missouri to respond with a decisive 6-0 run to secure the victory.

The loss overshadowed a standout performance by Zvonimir Ivisic, who recorded his first career double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds. Adou Thiero contributed 12 points, six rebounds, and three blocked shots for the Razorbacks. However, key factors worked against Arkansas, including Missouri’s dominance from the free-throw line (14-of-19) and beyond the arc (11 made 3-pointers). In contrast, the Razorbacks went 4-of-8 from the charity stripe and connected on just five 3-pointers.

Missouri’s balanced scoring attack powered the win, with five Tigers reaching double figures. Tamar Bates and Caleb Grill led the way with 17 points each. Missouri’s first-half shooting proved decisive, as the Tigers connected on 56% of their field goal attempts and 53% from deep, building a 52-35 halftime lead. Arkansas struggled to match, shooting just 3-of-14 from three-point range in the opening period.

Despite the loss, Arkansas showed improvement in the second half, shooting 48% from the field and holding Missouri to 34.5%. Ivisic added seven points and six rebounds after halftime, and the Razorbacks cut the Tigers’ lead to 10 with an 8-0 run early in the half. However, Missouri’s ability to capitalize on free throws and hit timely shots ultimately dashed Arkansas’ comeback hopes.

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The Razorbacks return to Fayetteville for a pair of home games next week, beginning with a matchup against Georgia on Wednesday, Jan. 11. Arkansas will look to rebound from the loss and build momentum as the season progresses.

Daniel Gafford Shines in Close Loss to Pelicans: A Career-Defining Performance

In a hard-fought contest that saw the Dallas Mavericks fall just short 119-116 to the New Orleans Pelicans on January 15, 2025, Daniel Gafford delivered a career-defining performance, leading the team in scoring with 27 points, along with 12 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 blocks. His impact on both ends of the floor was undeniable as he stepped up in the absence of the 2 Dallas superstars, Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving.

Mavericks Struggle to Find Rhythm

Spencer Dinwiddie and Jaden Hardy also rose to the challenge. Dinwiddie contributed 20 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 blocks, while Hardy added 21 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1 steal. Their performances were critical in keeping the Mavericks competitive in the absence of their two stars, but despite their efforts, the team was unable to close out the game, falling short by just three points.

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The Mavericks’ struggle to secure a win was compounded by the absence of Dončić and Irving, leaving the team without their primary offensive engines. However, Gafford’s strong performance, particularly his offensive efficiency and rebounding, showed that the team still had the ability to compete at a high level.

Gafford’s offensive game was on full display, mixing powerful dunks, crafty finishes around the rim, and short-range jumpers. His efficiency kept Dallas within striking distance, but crucial stretches in the game saw the Mavericks unable to capitalize on key moments. Gafford also pulled down 12 rebounds—several of which were offensive boards—that helped provide valuable second-chance opportunities. On the defensive end, Gafford was a standout, registering two key blocks that disrupted the Pelicans’ flow.

One of the most electrifying moments of the game came with 8 minutes left in the 4th quarter when Daniel Gafford Slams Alley-oop from Naji Marshall. The play was a highlight-reel dunk that energized the team and the crowd, showcasing why they call him “The Landlord.” Gafford’s hustle immediately afterward showed his determination to keep the pressure on New Orleans in the final stretch.

Going Forward For The Mavs and DG

While Gafford’s performance was impressive, the loss highlighted the Mavericks’ ongoing struggles in clutch situations. Despite strong individual efforts, their inability to finish the game is a concern moving forward. Gafford’s growth as a player was evident, but he alone couldn’t carry the team to victory. His two assists, in particular, reflected his growing understanding of the game and his role as a playmaker, but more support from the team was needed to secure the win.

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The loss, though disappointing, emphasized the need for the Mavericks to find ways to close out games without their stars. As the trade deadline approaches, the team must carefully evaluate how they can strengthen their roster to compete at the highest level once Dončić and Irving return to the fold.

As Gafford continues to build on this performance, the Mavericks are reminded of his value. His combination of skill, athleticism, and defensive presence makes him an important piece in Dallas’ future. But with 13 games already scoring 15+ points this season—including three games with 20+ points—Gafford has shown that, while he is a reliable contributor, the Mavericks’ future success hinges on the contributions of the entire team, especially in high-pressure situations.

At 26 years old, Gafford’s continued development will be crucial to the Mavericks’ long-term plans, but the team will need to find ways to finish games and secure victories moving forward.

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El Dorado – Boys and Girls Club of Union County Executive Director David Lee has announced the signups for the 2025 Baseball Season have opened. Cost is $70 per player if they are signed up by February 16th. There will be a late sign up period from February 17th – 23rd with a $25 late fee. Divisions being offered are: • T-Ball (ages 3-4)

• T-Ball (ages 5-6)

• Coach Pitch (ages 7-8)

• 10 & Under

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• 12 & Under

The child’s age as of April 30th, 2025 determines which division they play in. Season begins April 7th and for more information contact George Cotterman at 870.86.8753 ext 102.