The Arkansas basketball team has been at its best over the course of the last three seasons and this partial one when Devo Davis isn’t in a scorer’s role. Saturday against Georgia, Arkansas was near its best.
Arkansas may have made the Sweet 16 last year with Davis as a scorer – he was one of five players who averaged double figures in scoring last year – but defense and facilitiation has always been his calling card. Not offensive efficiency. And because the Razorbacks have struggled this season, Davis’ career-low points-per-game and shooting numbers have made him a goat among fans who have become frustrated.
When he left the team before Arkansas’ game against Kentucky two weeks ago, with the school choosing not to provide a reason, those fans assumed the worst. And, boy, were the assumptions horrible. But the reasonable folks had his back and showed during his return against the Bulldogs they appreciated everything he has provided the Razorbacks the last three-plus years as cheers and hoots-and-hollers resounded through Bud Walton Arena when he stepped onto the floor upon his return.
It was good see. And hear. Davis should, no matter what occurs the rest of the season, hold a place in Arkansas fans’ hearts forever. For a state that prides itself on isolationism, Davis should be a king as a home-grown (he’s from Jacksonville High) player who chose to stay home for all four years of college. Not only stay home, but play at a high level for all four of those years. He’s been starting since his freshman season.
His stats against Georgia were indicative of the player he truly is. Davis scored four points, grabbed four rebounds, doled out three assists and came up with two steals against the Bulldogs. Just the sort of stat line that complements a team of scorers.
Whatever happens with Arkansas basketball the rest of the way, the Razorbacks are a better team with Davis on the roster. Hogs fans should be glad he’s back.