Eric Musselman reveals why Jalen Graham didn't play in Arkansas opener
Arkansas began the season with a bang, defeating North Dakota State by double digits. It’s a season with high expectations for head coach Eric Musselman, hoping to make it further than last year’s Elite Eight run in the NCAA Tournament. But there has already been some controversy surrounding someone who was supposed to be a key contributor, Jalen Graham.
Graham did not make an appearance in the season opener Monday night. When asked about the senior’s status, Musselman made it known he was healthy. You could tell he was saying more with less when providing his answer.
“He’s healthy,” Musselman said. “He’s real healthy.”
Asked a follow-up question by a report, Musselman confirmed it was a coach’s decision to not put Graham in the ballgame.
“Yeah, it’s a coach’s decision,” said Musselman.
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Graham is in his first season with the Arkansas program, transferring in from Arizona State. He is one of the many transfers Musselman has brought in since taking over in Fayetteville. However, this one is off to a rocky start just one game into the season.
While with Arizona State, Graham was voted second-team All-Pac 12 during the 2021-2022 season. The forward averaged 9.9 points and 4.6 rebounds. Musselman was hoping he would bring similar results with Arkansas during what could be his final season of college basketball.
Arkansas without Nick Smith during season opener
Eric Musselman has Arkansas feeling as good as any team in college basketball this year, hoping to compete for a championship. Thanks to his ability to work the transfer portal and the No. 3 recruiting class brought in, expectations are high for the Razorbacks this season.
Guard Nick Smith Jr. was the top-ranked guy Musselman brought in this cycle, with Arkansas fans eagerly waiting to see him in action. They will have to wait a bit longer as Smith did not play in the season opener against North Dakota State.
According to Jeff Goodman of Stadium, Smith is dealing with a “minor knee injury.” Goodman said there is no serious concern over the freshman’s long-term health, saying Smith “shouldn’t miss much time.”
Arkansas will begin the season ranked inside the top 10 in the AP poll, just squeaking in at No. 10. Kentucky is the only SEC team ranked higher, although Tennessee is a spot behind the Razorbacks. Smith and his ability are a huge factor in the lofty preseason ranking under Musselman.