Davis’ return sparks optimism for next season

Devo Davis will return to Fayetteville for his senior season as an Arkansas Razorback.

The news broke Wednesday night as players were on the clock to decide their NBA Draft status. After going through much of the draft process and working out for the Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday, Davis decided to withdraw from the draft.

Davis has composed a handful of memorable performances during his career as a Razorback. Most recently, Davis’ second-half surge against Kansas in the round of 32 propelled the Hogs back into the Sweet 16 for a third consecutive year. His 25-point performance against the Jayhawks will live on amongst the already long list of memories for Hog hoops fans.

As a freshman, Davis’ late jumper against Oral Roberts clinched Arkansas a berth in the Elite. The Hogs would go on to lose to the eventual national champion Baylor Bears. However, the tournament run started Arkansas’ resurgence under Eric Musselman.

Additionally, his performance in January 2022 comes to mind as well. After chipping his tooth on the floor, Davis played a significant role in helping Arkansas get back on track in conference play with a win over LSU. Musselman was absent during the trip to Baton Rouge after undergoing shoulder surgery.

The return of Devo Davis has enormous implications for the 2023-24 hoops season. Davis has improved each season under Eric Musselman, giving fans every reason to believe he will be an elite asset next season. Davis has cemented himself as a clutch performer and postseason master. Additionally, his experience and leadership will go a long way in helping Muss mesh yet another cast of newcomers.

With Davis’ return, Arkansas’ backcourt creates all kinds of problems for all opponents next season.