Arkansas Razorbacks vs Michigan Wolverines Picks and Predictions December 10th 2024

Michigan Rides Momentum Into Jimmy V Classic Matchup With Arkansas

No. 14 Michigan looks to continue its impressive start under first-year head coach Dusty May when it faces the Arkansas Razorbacks on Tuesday night in the Jimmy V Classic at Madison Square Garden.

Michigan’s Resurgence Under May

The Wolverines (8-1) enter the Top 25 for the first time in more than two years following a seven-game winning streak. May, who previously led Florida Atlantic to a Cinderella Final Four run, has quickly implemented a cohesive style in Ann Arbor.

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A key contributor to Michigan’s success is Vladislav Goldin, a transfer from Florida Atlantic. The 7-foot-1 center has hit his stride recently, including a season-high 24 points in a win at then-No. 11 Wisconsin and a 20-point, 11-rebound double-double in Saturday’s 85-83 victory over Iowa.

“When he’s locked in and focused, there’s a different level of play,” May said of Goldin. “I think now he’s finding that level.”

Michigan boasts a balanced scoring attack with Roddy Gayle Jr. (12.2 points per game), Tre Donaldson (12.1), and Danny Wolf (12.0) all averaging in double figures. Wolf also leads the team with 10 rebounds per game.

Arkansas’s Search for a Signature Win

The Razorbacks (7-2) are adjusting under new head coach John Calipari, who brings his storied resume to Fayetteville after a long tenure at Kentucky.

While Arkansas has shown flashes of potential, including back-to-back wins, the team is still seeking its first marquee victory of the season. Losses to then-No. 8 Baylor and Illinois on neutral courts have highlighted areas for growth.

“This is the first page of the first chapter of a new book,” Calipari said. “The timing for me and my career and my life, this is perfect.”

Adou Thiero has been a standout, averaging team highs in points (18.6) and rebounds (6.1). The sophomore guard matched his career high with 26 points and added 10 rebounds in Saturday’s 75-60 win over UTSA, including 17 points in a dominant second half.

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“This is just a reflection of the work he’s done this summer,” forward Trevon Brazile said of Thiero.

Boogie Fland (15.0 points) and Zvonimir Ivisic (12.0) provide additional offensive firepower, while transfer Johnell Davis has started to find his rhythm, averaging 12.5 points over the past two games.

Key Matchup: Vladislav Goldin vs. Adou Thiero

Goldin’s inside presence will be tested by Arkansas’s physicality, particularly Thiero’s ability to dominate on the boards and finish in the paint. The Wolverines will aim to capitalize on Goldin’s size and recent form, while the Razorbacks will lean on Thiero’s explosiveness and consistency.

What’s at Stake

• Michigan: Solidifying its place in the Top 25 and proving its strong start can translate to marquee matchups.
• Arkansas: Building confidence under Calipari with a signature victory in a high-profile setting.

With both teams hungry to showcase their potential, Tuesday’s clash at Madison Square Garden promises to be a key early-season test for two programs with lofty aspirations.