DJ Wagner’s best game with Arkansas basketball unlocks Hogs offense in win over Pacific

FAYETTEVILLE — Arkansas basketball coach John Calipari couldn’t sleep after a win over Troy last week. One number on the final stat sheet kept Calipari up throughout the night, thinking about how he could help one of his key players.

DJ Wagner scored zero points against the Trojans. Calipari summoned the sophomore guard into his office the next day, but Wagner wasn’t frustrated. He didn’t want Calipari worrying about his own scoring output

That response was a sign of maturity and selflessness, but Calipari still wanted the former five-star recruit more involved with the Arkansas offense. He got his wish Monday night as Wagner scored a season-high 14 points and dished out a team-high five assists in the No. 24 Razorbacks’ 91-72 victory over Pacific.

“(Wagner) said, ‘Coach, I’m good.'”

“‘Kid, you’re family. So, I’m going to put you at point guard some today,'” Calipari said.

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More: Arkansas basketball dominates second half to knock off Pacific

Giving Wagner more time at point guard may have unlocked the Arkansas offense.

After settling for too many threes and suffering a variety of scoring droughts in their first three games, the Razorbacks (3-1) set a season-high in points, field-goal percentage (59.6%) and 3-point percentage (42.9%) against the Tigers (3-3). Outside of 15 turnovers, Arkansas essentially got what it wanted offensively Monday with 40 points in the paint and 25 free-throw attempts.

And as simple as it sounds, Wagner also played better in his new role. He made his first two 3-pointers of the season and looked confident finishing around the paint. He was more assertive with the ball and didn’t lose his natural desire to set up his teammates.

Nov 6, 2024; Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard D.J. Wagner (21) drives against Lipscomb Bisons guard Logan Suber (11) in the second half at Bud Walton Arena. Arkansas won 76-60. Mandatory Credit: Nelson…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/dj-wagners-best-game-arkansas-101009963.html

Author : Ft. Smith Southwest Times Record

Publish date : 2024-11-19 10:10:00

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