Arkansas versus St. John’s is shaping up to be quite a contest! Everyone knew it would be a high-voltage game, with Calipari and Pitino facing off against each other, but no one could have expected this! The matchup between John Calipari and Rick Pitino is a clash of titans that has captivated college basketball fans for decades. The Hogs took off with an early lead, but the Red Storm is fighting their way back. It’s anybody’s game now, and there’s palpable tension in the air.

However, it seems like announcer Steve Lappas can’t get enough of the thriller! The former Villanova and UMass coach has certainly spent his time in both the coach’s and the broadcaster’s seat. He has seen it all–the rise and fall of teams in March.

According to TheGunzShow on X, however, Lappas has been letting the excitement get to him and his commentary. “The color analyst for Arkansas vs St. John’s is talking WAY too much. He’s letting the high emotion and atmosphere of Calipari vs Pitino get the best of him.” The tweet read, showing Lappas’ passion for the game.

Since 2005, Lappas has served as a basketball colour commentator and studio analyst for college basketball games on CBS Sports. As well as on college basketball broadcasts, including the NCAA tournament from 2015. In his capacity at CBS, Lappas provides live game and studio analysis. Lappas has developed a reputation as a coach turned broadcaster who provides a mix of common sense coaching expertise and perspective that complements the broadcasts he is assigned to.

As of March 2025, Lappas is broadcasting the NCAA tournament with appearances in the second round. He is working with Andrew Catalon and Jamie Erdahl. Let’s now come back to the game. Looks like Arkansas is pulling away!!

Rick Pitino vs John Calipari final score: Arkansas has done it

What a game between the Arkansas and St. John’s basketball teams. It was one of those headline games that was must-see TV. Two Hall of Fame coaches were facing off this time, Rick Pitino of St. John’s and John Calipari of Arkansas. Arkansas won the game 75-66.

The Razorbacks jumped out to an early lead, but St. John’s refused to go away, displaying toughness and grit throughout the game. The first half went back-and-forth with many impressive plays and high-energy moments. Both teams played strong defense and knocked down tough shots to keep fans engaged in an exciting contest.

The experience of Arkansas proved valuable as the game unfolded, with the Razorbacks exhibiting composure in high leverage moments, generating transition opportunities on turnovers, and converting late free throws to secure the win.  All in all, it was an exciting game that definitely lived up to the hype! Yet, for some viewers, the real story was Steve Lappas—caught in the act of letting his passion outpace his role. As Arkansas advances to the Sweet 16, the debate lingers: did the broadcast amplify the hype or dim its shine?