Sports

Gafford Explodes for 27-12 Against New Orleans

Published

3 months ago

January 15, 2025

Staff Reports

Daniel Gafford finishing around the rim with a reverse lay up.

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.

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.

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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Arkansas Falls to Missouri Despite Second-Half Push

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Sports

Razorbacks Blank UALR To Complete Midweek Sweep

Published

52 minutes ago

April 24, 2025

Grant Merrill

LITTLE ROCK – No. 5 Arkansas (36-7) completed a dominant midweek sweep of Little Rock (18-22) with a 4-0 shutout Wednesday night at Baum-Walker Stadium — the Razorbacks’ fifth shutout of the season and second in as many nights.

Six Arkansas pitchers combined for a 15-strikeout gem, holding the Trojans scoreless for nine innings. Starter Colin Fisher tossed two frames before turning things over to the bullpen. True freshman Steele Eaves earned his first collegiate win with two scoreless innings, followed by clean appearances from Cole Gibler (6 SO), Ben Bybee, Christian Foutch, and Will McEntire.

Offensively, Arkansas struck early in the third inning with a bases-loaded walk and a wild pitch to take a 2-0 lead. That cushion held until the seventh when shortstop Wehiwa Aloy blasted his team-leading 16th home run of the season. Aloy went 2-for-5, boosting his season average to .379 while leading the team in nearly every offensive category, including runs (61), hits (69), and total bases (134).

Outfielder Charles Davalan added to the scoring with a two-out RBI single in the eighth, marking his 22nd multi-hit game of the season.

The Razorbacks improved to 11-1 in midweek games and will wrap up their midweek schedule on Tuesday, April 29, at Missouri State. But first, they head to Florida for a key SEC road series April 25-27. Friday’s opener in Gainesville is set for 5:30 p.m. on SEC Network+.

Sports

Lady Cat Basketball Tryouts Set For Late April, Early May

Published

2 days ago

April 22, 2025

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO – El Dorado’s Lady Cats basketball program is gearing up for the 2025 season with tryouts scheduled for late April and early May for incoming 7th through 12th grade students.

Tryouts will begin with the 7th grade on Wednesday, April 24, at Washington Middle School from 3:25 to 5:00 p.m. The 8th grade session will follow the next week on Wednesday, May 1, at Barton Junior High School, also from 3:25 to 5:00 p.m.

High school tryouts for 9th through 12th grade students will be held on Wednesday, May 8, at the EHS Arena, with the same time slot of 3:25 to 5:00 p.m.

Participants are required to bring several items to be eligible to try out, including:

A current physical
A copy of their report card
Basketball shoes
Shorts
A T-shirt
A water bottle

For more information or questions about the tryout process, families can contact Coach Makara Frazier at makara.frazier@esd-15.org.

The Lady Cats program continues to build its competitive legacy, and these tryouts mark the first step in assembling teams for the upcoming season.

Sports

Hogs Drop First Home Weekend Series Since 2022

Published

3 days ago

April 21, 2025

Staff Reports

FAYETTEVILLE – No. 2 Arkansas (34-7, 13-5 SEC) split Friday’s doubleheader against Texas A&M (23-16, 8-10 SEC) at Baum-Walker Stadium, winning the opener 11-5 before falling 9-2 in the nightcap. The loss marked the Razorbacks’ first SEC home weekend series defeat since 2022, ending a streak of 12 straight home series wins.

In the first game, Arkansas rode strong relief pitching and a powerful offensive showing to even the series. Ben Bybee and Gabe Gaeckle combined for 8.2 innings of two-run ball and 12 strikeouts. Gaeckle, making his first relief appearance of the season, picked up the win, improving to 3-1.

The Razorback offense exploded for 11 runs, led by Wehiwa Aloy and Kuhio Aloy, who combined for six hits and three RBI. Justin Thomas Jr. recorded his first career multi-homer game, driving in three runs, while Brent Iredale also tallied three RBI. Aloy’s solo homer in the third was his fourth in as many games and his team-leading 15th of the year.

In the nightcap, Texas A&M pulled away late with a pair of three-run innings to win the rubber match. Jace LaViolette homered twice, scoring four runs and driving in three to lead the Aggies.

Landon Beidelschies gave Arkansas four solid innings on short rest, allowing one run and striking out four. But the Razorback bullpen gave up eight runs after his exit. Despite multi-hit games from Charles Davalan, Wehiwa Aloy, Brent Iredale and Ryder Helfrick, Arkansas left 10 runners stranded and went 0-for-8 with runners in scoring position.

Arkansas, which had swept its SEC home series in both 2023 and 2024, now turns its attention to a two-game midweek set against in-state opponent Little Rock on April 22-23. First pitch Tuesday is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on SEC Network+.

Sports

Razorbacks Season Ticket Renewal Deadline Is Today

Published

3 weeks ago

March 31, 2025

Staff Reports

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — March 31 is the final deadline for fans to renew their Razorback Football season tickets and make their 2025 Razorback Foundation Annual Fund pledge. Log in to your account here to complete your renewal online.

The Hogs will host seven games inside the state in 2025, including the first-ever matchup with national runner-up Notre Dame. The season kicks off on August 30 against Alabama A&M before a historic meeting with Arkansas State inside War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock on September 6. The Razorbacks and Red Wolves will meet on the gridiron for the first time on the first weekend of September. The Hogs return home on September 27 to take on the Fighting Irish and will welcome Texas A&M to Fayetteville for the first time since 2013 when the Aggies visit on October 18. Auburn comes to Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium the following week (October 25) before Mississippi State comes to town November 1 to wrap up a three-game home stand. The Hogs’ annual battle with Missouri wraps up the regular season November 29.

Renew your tickets by clicking here or by calling the Razorback Ticket Center at 479-575-5151 for assistance. The final deadline to renew is March 31.

Season ticket holder benefits for 2025

Invitation to participate in Yoga prior to the Spring Game
Invitation to participate in Holiday Photos on the Field in fall of 2025
Priority access to purchase tickets for non-athletic events in Razorback Stadium
First right to purchase Razorback Football postseason tickets
Flexible payment plan options and dedicated Razorback Ticket Sales representative

Sports

HOW SWEET IT IS: Razorbacks Down St. John’s To Advance In NCAA Tourney

Published

1 month ago

March 22, 2025

Grant Merrill

PROVIDENCE – In a thrilling second-round matchup of the NCAA Tournament on March 22, 2025, the No. 10 seed Arkansas Razorbacks defeated the No. 2 seed St. John’s Red Storm with a final score of 75-66 at the Amica Mutual Pavilion in Providence, Rhode Island.

The Razorbacks established a narrow lead by halftime, going into the break ahead 35-32. Arkansas maintained their momentum in the second half, outscoring St. John’s 40-34 to secure the victory.

D.J. Wagner led the Razorbacks with 18 points, showcasing his offensive prowess. Johnell Davis contributed a double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds, providing a strong presence on both ends of the court. For St. John’s, RJ Luis Jr., the Big East Player of the Year, struggled offensively, shooting 3-for-17 from the field and finishing with nine points. His shooting woes significantly impacted the Red Storm’s offensive rhythm.

The game was marred by contentious officiating, with several questionable foul calls affecting both teams. CBS analyst Steve Lappas criticized the referees for their frequent whistles, particularly highlighting fouls against St. John’s Kadary Richmond and Zuby Ejiofor, as well as Arkansas’ Zvonimir Ivisic, all of whom fouled out during the game.

With this victory, Arkansas advances to the Sweet Sixteen, continuing their impressive tournament run. The Hogs will play either Texas Tech or Drake in San Francisco on Thursday.