Daniel Gafford’s decision to return to Arkansas was a surprise, but you won’t see head coach Mike Anderson complaining about it.
That’s because Gafford is the only key contributor returning from last year’s 23-win team, and that makes this season a fascinating one for all parties.
Will Gafford have enough help around him to lead the Razorbacks to their fourth NCAA Tournament in the past five years?
Or will the lack of veteran playmakers on the perimeter limit Gafford’s ability to produce at an even higher level?
Inside the Numbers
Gafford averaged 11.8 points and 6.2 rebounds per game last season while also adding 76 total blocks.
What stood out most was his 75 dunks in 35 games played, which resulted in an efficient 60.5 percent shooting from the field.
One area of much-needed improvement will be at the free-throw line, where Gafford made just 85 of 161 attempts for 52.8 percent.
Something else worth watching will be his foul rate, as he finished with at least four fouls in 18 games last year.
Season Outlook
Here’s the deal: All eyes are going to be on Gafford this season, and the future NBA lottery pick is going to have a lot of pressure on his shoulders.
Arkansas will need its young roster to grow up in a hurry because if it doesn’t, opposing teams are going to stack the deck against Gafford to try to force someone else to beat them.
Daryl Macon and Jaylen Barford were excellent at opening up easy opportunities for the 6-11 phenom, and finding that same type of chemistry with the new-look backcourt will be crucial to Gafford’s success.
The freshman to sophomore jump is always interesting, and seeing how Gafford has expanded his shooting and scoring ability will one of the biggest storylines for Arkansas heading into the season.