FAYETTEVILLE — The second edition of Arkansas men’s basketball under Coach Mike Anderson will make its debut Friday night when the Razorbacks open the season against Sam Houston State at Walton Arena.
Arkansas is looking to improve on an 18-14 record last season in Anderson’s debut. That team started 16-6 and looked as if it might play its way into the NCAA Tournament, but the Razorbacks went 2-6 down the stretch with a roster depleted by injuries and transfers.
The Razorbacks have more depth this season, though they’ll be without All-SEC sophomore guard BJ Young on Friday night as he completes a two-game suspension for violating an unspecified team rule.
Young was suspended for Monday’s night’s exhibition game against LeMoyne-Owen College, but the Razorbacks cruised to a 111-45 victory with newcomers Coty Clarke, Michael Qualls, Jacorey Williams, Dee Wagner and Anthlon Bell combining for 69 points and 31 rebounds off the bench.
“I think for the most partthose guys have confidence,” Anderson said. “They’ve played hard every time they’ve gone out. They play the right way defensively.
“They’re still learning. Sometimes they overdo some things, but one thing you don't worry about is they will learn the intricacies as we continue to work with our team. Each time we’ve brought them in,they’ve sped the game up to a different level and then you see the athletic ability they bring to the table.”
Tonight, Anderson likely will go with a starting lineup of five returning players: redshirt junior forward Marshawn Powell, junior guards Rickey Scott and Mardracus Wade, sophomore forward Hunter Mickelson and sophomore guard Ky Madden.
“Those guys have had a year under their belt and then this summer,” Anderson said. “That hopefully will pay off that these guys have a feel for what we do and how we do it. Hopefully, that will make a difference.”
Powell will be playing his first regular-season game in almost a year. His last game was Arkansas’ 91-68 victory over Oakland (Mich.) University on Nov. 16, 2011. He sustained a season-ending knee injury in practice the next day.
“This is what he’s worked to get towards,” Anderson said. “I’m sure he’s looking forward to getting out on the floor and playing in a real game.”
Powell, a preseason All-SEC second-team choice, was slowed as a sophomore two years ago after breaking a foot in the summer and as a freshman he had to comeback from a broken hand.
“He’s has been through quite a bit since he's been here,” Anderson said. “A lot of guys would give in after being injured a couple of times, but here is a guy that each time he’s fought to get back. So hopefully now this is his time.”
Sports, Pages 28 on 11/08/2012