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Arkansas Stuns Kentucky in Rupp: Calipari’s Razorbacks Ride Transfers to Victory

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By Patrick Geans

February 2, 2025

LEXINGTON, Ky. — In a statement win for John Calipari and the Arkansas Razorbacks, his squad, powered by a trio of former Kentucky Wildcats, took down the No. 10-ranked Kentucky Wildcats 78-68 at Rupp Arena. The victory marked Arkansas’ second SEC win of the season and proved Calipari’s philosophy of “coaching fearless” is paying off.

The Razorbacks (12-9, 2-6 SEC) were fueled by standout performances from their trio of ex-Wildcats—Adou Thiero, D.J. Wagner, and Ugonna Onyenso—who transferred to Arkansas following Calipari’s shocking departure from Lexington last offseason. The trio combined for 42 points, 18 rebounds, and four blocks, helping Arkansas control the tempo and silence the Rupp Arena crowd.

“I’m coaching fearless today,” Calipari said after the game. “These guys came in locked in, and we played like we had nothing to lose. We knew what we were up against, and we embraced it.”

Razorbacks Take Control

Arkansas set the tone early, using its size and defensive pressure to disrupt Kentucky’s rhythm. The Wildcats (17-5, 6-3 SEC) struggled with Arkansas’ physicality, shooting just 39% from the field. Despite a 22-point effort from freshman guard Rob Dillingham, Kentucky could never seize momentum.

Thiero, who played sparingly for Kentucky last season, shined with 14 points and eight rebounds. His energy and defensive intensity helped Arkansas stay in control throughout. Wagner, another former Wildcat, added 16 points, showing poise in key moments.

“It was emotional, no doubt,” Wagner said. “But we came here to win, and that’s what we did.”

Calipari’s Return to Rupp

Calipari’s return to Rupp Arena was one of the most highly anticipated coaching matchups of the season. After spending 15 seasons at Kentucky, leading the program to a national championship in 2012 and multiple Final Fours, his departure last summer shocked the college basketball world.

The Hall of Fame coach, now in his first year at Arkansas, downplayed the personal significance of the game but acknowledged it was special.

“I love those kids over there,” Calipari said. “This place will always mean something to me, but tonight was about my guys in that locker room.”

What’s Next?

The Wildcats will look to rebound as they prepare for a crucial SEC matchup against Tennessee. Arkansas, now with some momentum, hopes to build on this win as it faces Florida next week.

While Kentucky fans may not have enjoyed Calipari’s homecoming, the Razorbacks made one thing clear: they won’t back down from anyone, not even the program their coach once built.

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