Arkansas freshmen Darius Acuff Jr. and Meleek Thomas built their chemistry long before arriving in Fayetteville and it’s now powering the Razorbacks’ NCAA Tournament run.
The pair began developing their on-court connection while still in high school.
“We talked about it in high school when we first committed,” Acuff said. “It takes a lot of communication, and we have that.”
That chemistry has helped fourth-seeded Arkansas (28-8) advance to the Sweet 16, where it will face top-seeded Arizona Wildcats men’s basketball on Thursday.
Acuff, an AP first-team All-American, has been dominant throughout the tournament. He scored 36 points in Arkansas’ second-round win over High Point, setting a program record for points in an NCAA Tournament game. Thomas added 19 in the victory.
“It takes a lot of togetherness,” Thomas said. “When you’re genuinely happy for your teammate, you get enjoyment out of seeing him do well.”
The duo has been among the most productive freshman backcourts in the country, combining for nearly 40 points per game this season. Acuff, the SEC Player of the Year, has already set Arkansas single-season records with 817 points and 229 assists.
Arkansas head coach John Calipari said the two have elevated each other all season.
“All they have done is help each other,” Calipari said. “They care about each other.”
Thomas has provided balance in the backcourt, delivering timely scoring including a key three-pointer late against High Point to help seal the win.
Now, Arkansas will look to its freshman stars again as it faces Arizona, which features its own talented young duo.
“They both have otherworldly confidence,” Calipari said. “That’s why they’re special.”
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