Arkansas’ double-digit loss to South Alabama continues the Razorbacks spiral. That’s three straight nonconference losses to mid-major programs in Bud Walton Arena in the span of a week. No matter how shaky things looked this season, I don’t think anyone envisioned that scenario playing out.
It’s a topic I addressed in my game story, which didn’t really have much to do with the game. It was more about Arkansas’ reaction after another loss. You can check it out by clicking this link.
There’s a couple of things I couldn’t fit into my story, though. Things well worth mentioning here on the Blog:
1. Pelphrey’s technical
Arkansas’ coach picked up his first technical of the season in the first half Saturday. He was slapped with the technical after South Alabama’s Javier Carter tipped the ball in the bucket. Pelphrey thought it should’ve been goaltending and said so after the game.
“I thought the ball was completely on the rim,” Pelphrey said. “That’s what I thought. Obviously, I’m allowed to have my opinion, too.”
Pelphrey was asked what he said to pick up the technical. He thought it was something else that earned the call.
“I don’t thnk he liked me stomping my foot at him,” Pelphrey said. “He was past halfcourt so he has no idea what I said.”
2. Sanchez’s Return
Arkansas forward Michael Sanchez was back on the floor after missing the first five games while dealing with plantar fasciitis in both feet. The sophomore wasn’t supposed to play much today, but Michael Washington’s back injury pushed him into a bigger role.
Sanchez scored 6 points and grabbed 2 rebounds in 16 minutes. He actually gave the Razorbacks a big lift during their 22-1 in the first half, which helped them grab a 34-30 lead at the half. But Sanchez’s efforts weren’t enough to help the Hogs overcome a bad performance.
“I knew at some point today I was going to go in, but I didn’t know how long,” Sanchez said. “I didn’t mind coming in and playing those minutes. I played on straight adrenaline. I don’t know how I’m going to feel after this, but it felt great being out there.”
Pelphrey said he’s a little worried about Sanchez’s feet after playing much more than expected, too.
“I’m really, really concerned with what he’s going to be like (Monday),” Pelphrey said. “This guy hasn’t done anything in 30-something days, at least. He’s probably going to be very, very sore. But it’s good to have him back.”
3. Fortson Back at Practice
Another player is back, sort of. Pelphrey confirmed after the game that point guard Courtney Fortson has returned to practice after missing most of the past month because of an indefinite suspension/personal issues.
Don’t get too excited, though. Pelphrey said there still is no timetable for Fortson’s return to the court.
But let’s go back to something Pelphrey said last week when asked about Stef Welsh and Fortson. He said it was possible one of the two suspended players could return before the end of the academic semester. Welsh was back the next game. Fortson is still waiting.
The last day of fall semester classes, according to Arkansas’ Web site, is Dec. 8. Final exams run through Dec. 16. Arkansas plays Delaware State that night, too. I wouldn’t be surprised if Fortson, considering he continues to follow the path laid out in front of him, is available at that point.
