Arkansas Razorbacks Cruise to Victory Despite Shortened Bench

Coach John Calipari prepares to roll with limited rotation again at LSU after key players sit out against Mississippi State.

Feb. 8, 2026 at 11:47am

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The No. 21 Arkansas Razorbacks were able to cruise to an 88-68 victory over Mississippi State on Saturday, despite being without two key players - guard D.J. Wagner (ankle) and starting small forward Karter Knox (knee). Coach John Calipari said both players are likely "questionable" for Tuesday's game at LSU, which would force him to use a shortened bench again, something he has experience with from his time at previous schools.

Why it matters

The Razorbacks' ability to win convincingly without two starters shows the team's depth and resilience, but also raises questions about their long-term health and whether they can maintain this level of play if key contributors continue to miss time due to injuries.

The details

Neither Wagner nor Knox were available against Mississippi State, severely limiting Calipari's rotation. The coach said he tried to get both players ready, but knew it would be a challenge for Wagner given the nature of his game. If the duo miss Tuesday's game at LSU, it will give Calipari an abbreviated lineup, which is something he has done successfully in the past at other programs.

  • On Saturday, February 8, 2026, the Razorbacks defeated Mississippi State 88-68.
  • The Razorbacks' next game is on Tuesday, February 11, 2026 at LSU.

The players

John Calipari

The head coach of the Arkansas Razorbacks basketball team.

D.J. Wagner

A guard for the Arkansas Razorbacks who missed the game against Mississippi State due to an ankle injury.

Karter Knox

The starting small forward for the Arkansas Razorbacks who missed the game against Mississippi State due to a knee injury.

Isaiah Sealy

A true freshman who came off the bench to contribute 6 points and strong defense for the Razorbacks against Mississippi State.

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What they’re saying

“I haven't talked to anybody. They're probably questionable, I would say, for Tuesday.”

— John Calipari, Head Coach

“I knew [Knox's] knee was bothering him. I knew after the [Kentucky] game that it would be hard [to get him back for Saturday], but we were telling him, 'Try to get yourself ready.'”

— John Calipari, Head Coach

“DJ [Wagner], again, here's a guy that plays so hard, fights so hard, he can't go at 80% the way he plays. He's got to be healthy.”

— John Calipari, Head Coach

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.