John Calipari guides Arkansas to upset win over Kansas

In the 2025 NCAA Tournament opening round, Arkansas University, coached by John Calipari, faced off against Kansas, a historically strong basketball program. The match took place on March 21, 2025, in Providence, Rhode Island. Arkansas, a 10th seed, secured a 79-72 victory against the 7th-seeded Jayhawks, which marked Calipari's first tournament win with the Razorbacks. Jonas Aidoo was a standout player, scoring 22 points, while Johnell Davis contributed significantly with 18 points, including crucial late free throws. The game was crucial as Kansas had not lost in the first round since 2006, showcasing the dramatic nature of their defeat. The game flipped several times as Kansas reclaimed the lead in the second half, only to fall short as Arkansas secured key free throws in the closing minutes. Following this victory, Arkansas was set to advance to the next round, facing off against St. John's, led by Rick Pitino, underscoring the competitive landscape of the tournament. This success for Calipari and the Razorbacks also brought attention to his daughter, Megan Calipari, who gained visibility during the broadcast for her vegan baking talents, particularly as she was shown reacting to the tense moments of the game. This intersection of athletics and personal life highlighted the media's narrative around the game and its participants, adding a layer of storytelling to the sporting event.