The Arkansas Razorbacks are set to face St. John’s in the second round of the NCAA Tournament, but a significant absence looms over their lineup. Forward Adou Thiero, who has been sidelined for eight games due to a hyperextended left knee, will not play in this crucial matchup as reported by CBS Sports’ Jon Rothstein. His potential return hinges on participation in Friday’s practice. Despite this setback, the Razorbacks advanced to the second round with a 79-72 victory over Kansas, while St. John’s dominated Omaha with an 83-53 win. Coach John Calipari and his counterpart Rick Pitino bring extensive history to this matchup, having faced each other multiple times throughout their storied careers.

Adou Thiero's injury occurred during a February 22 game against Missouri. The player, known for averaging 15.6 points and 6 rebounds per game with a remarkable 54% shooting accuracy, has been sorely missed. Coach Calipari hinted at Thiero’s possible return if he participates in the upcoming practice sessions, though no official timeline exists for his comeback. This situation underscores the team's need for depth, especially considering the high-stakes nature of tournament play.

Beyond the absence of Thiero, the Razorbacks received a boost from Boogie Fland's return after a thumb surgery that kept him out for 15 games. Despite some rustiness, Fland contributed significantly with 6 points, 3 assists, and 3 steals against Kansas. His presence adds another layer of complexity to the team's strategy moving forward. Meanwhile, St. John’s, under the guidance of Hall-of-Famer Rick Pitino, presents a formidable challenge with their athletic and skilled roster.

The upcoming Saturday matchup between Arkansas and St. John’s promises to be intense, with both teams showcasing distinct strengths. While St. John’s boasts seasoned leadership under Pitino, Arkansas counters with youthful energy and adaptability. The winner will advance to face either Drake or Texas Tech in the Sweet 16, setting up a thrilling continuation of the tournament.

As the Razorbacks prepare for their next battle, the potential return of Adou Thiero could tip the scales in their favor. His athleticism and scoring prowess would provide invaluable support against St. John’s similarly athletic lineup. With such high stakes, every player’s contribution counts, making Thiero’s status a critical factor in Arkansas’ championship aspirations.