Trend Indicates Fans Focused on Wrong Razorback

Everyone wants to know if Walsh will stay, but different Hog might hold key to major roster move

Author:
Kent Smith
Updated:
Apr 13, 2023 4:35 PM EDT
Original:
Apr 13, 2023

In this story:

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Now that Arkansas point guard Anthony Black has put his name in the NBA Draft as a possible Top 10 pick, Razorback fans have turned to feverishly refreshing the Instagram and Twitter pages of Jordan Walsh, especially after today's unexpected announcement that Cincinnati transfer Jeremiah Davenport will be a Razorback.

However, the person everyone needs to be keeping an eye on isRazorback center Makhi Mitchell. His silence since his brother departed has been deafening, but what hasn't been quiet is the trend of contacting big men by Eric Musselman.

In the past few days, Arkansas has reached out to 6-foot-10 Oklahoma center Moussa Cisse, 7-foot South Florida center Russel Tchewa, 7-foot-5 Western Kentucky center Jamarion Sharp, and 6-foot-11 Syracuse center Jesse Edwards.

That's a lot of height and a lot of specifically target activity.

For the record, of the three, Edwards may be the best fit at Arkansas. He is not only highly athletic, but he averages almost 15 points, over 10 rebounds and three blocked shots per game.

None of these players are committed at the moment.

With Trevon Brazile coming back, it's not as pressing that Musselman find a big man to fulfill the role once held by Mahkel Mitchell. Brazile can definitely slide over and take on big men should Makhi need a breather or get into foul trouble. However, while it would be nice to have one more large body in the mix, it becomes an absolute requirement if Makhi decides to leave.

So far it looks like Makhi is, at the very least, heavily considering staying. If there were ever a year for him to have a bit of separation from his twin brother, this would be it.

Yet, Musselman's recent search patterns indicate fans shouldn't be shocked if word comes down that he has decided to move on.

Makhi's chances of going pro are probably greater at Arkansas, but brotherly love is a powerful thing. With the way transfer portal news is popping up like pimples on a 16-year-old boy on a Cheetos diet, it won't be long before fans know which way he goes.