You know how some seasons start with all the hope in the world, only for reality to hit like a bad turnover in crunch time? Even big powerhouses can crumble under the weight of injuries, and the Razorbacks are no different. A 12-10 record and future raises eyebrows about the state of the roster and the massive budget Arkansas basketball carries. 

Although John Calipari is trying to steady the ship in his first season with Arkansas, he’s been in tougher spots before. However, this time, some folks think Cal might need more than just his expertise. On a recent podcast, Randolph Childress had the ultimate suggestion.

“Cal just needs Anthony Davis to come back, man,” Childress said, half-jokingly.  “Drop that Lakers uniform, come back in tournament time, and play for your coach. That’s what Cal needs for Christmas.”

Honestly, who wouldn’t love to see Davis suiting up in Razorback red? The bond between Calipari and Davis runs deep, and it’s hard not to fantasize about a reunion. It’s not possible this way, though. Moreover, Arkansas basketball has already spent $427,776 this season. Razorbacks fans are passionate, and when the results don’t match the investment, frustration bubbles over. “How long before people get fed up with it?” Childress asked. For now, the heat is on Calipari to deliver.

To be fair, the man knows what it takes to win. Calipari led Kentucky to a national championship in 2012, with Davis as the centerpiece of that legendary team. The duo’s connection runs deep; Cal was one of the first to see Davis’s potential, and their partnership remains a shining example of college basketball success. 

Davis himself had nothing but praise for his former coach, saying recently, “They’re looking good right now. I’m loving the coach and the team. Hopefully, we can get banner number nine this year.” While Davis is having a stellar season with the Lakers, the Razorbacks are battling it out in the trenches. 

John Calipari’s razorbacks face challenges

Arkansas fans are known to ride or die with every game, but Calipari has a different mindset. “Don’t make projections off one game,” he said. “November and December don’t matter as much as February and March.” And he’s got a point. The SEC is brutal, with 10 teams ranked in the AP Top 25. The real test is whether the Razorbacks can peak at the right time.

For now, Arkansas sits at No. 23, but the road ahead isn’t easy. With the grind of SEC play looming, the focus is on building momentum and getting healthy. The Razorbacks’ current roster issues are no secret. With just nine players available, every contribution counts, and per Childress, only a miracle like Davis’s return can ensure a good run.

Thankfully, Jonas Aidoo is making his way back from injury. While he’s not yet at full strength, his return is a welcome boost. After a recent game against the Aggies, Calipari kept it real with his team. “It’s like I told them—win this game, go for Christmas, breathe for the first time, and then come back jacked and juiced for the grind ahead,” he said.

Overall, it’s clear Calipari has a lot on his plate. Between managing injuries, justifying a sky-high budget, and going into the SEC gauntlet, this season feels like an uphill climb. But if anyone knows how to rally a team, it’s Cal. As for the Anthony Davis reunion at the college court, Well, let’s just say we can dream.