Pelphrey Exhibits Passion, Confidence in Detailing Mass Suspensions

FAYETTEVILLE - First came the press release announcing multiple Arkansas basketball suspensions.

Guards Stefan Welsh and Courtney Fortson are out indefinitely for unrelated incidents that fall under "violation of team rules." Guard Marcus Britt is out six games for a summer DUI arrest and his part in a fraternity house incident that led to allegations of rape, but no charges. Forward Glenn Bryant is out two games for his role in the fraternity house incident, which also netted walk-on guard Nick Mason a suspension for the entire fall.

Moments after the release was handed out, Razorbacks coach John Pelphrey took his place behind the microphone in the Bud Walton Arena media room to address the situation. And for the first time since the rape investigation went public in September, Pelphrey sounded confident as he talked about discipline and hope. He came across as passionate. He seemed determined not to let the season fall apart.

Pelphrey delivered an important message Tuesday to a room full of media types; his wife, Tracy, and a handful of basketball staff members and athletic administrators. What Pelphrey said wasn't as much for them as it was the people of the state and for his team.

"I'm not going to apologize for believing that we should do it a certain way, for being disciplined," Pelphrey said. "There are consequences for your actions. Know that."

Pelphrey didn't stop there.

"Adversity is something we all have to deal with in our lives," Pelphrey said. "Adversity, man, is tough. But I think it makes you better if you're not afraid of it. I want all the Hog fans to understand, I want the great state of Arkansas to understand that I am fearless in my resolve.

"We're more inspired today than we ever have been."

Words alone won't get Arkansas through this mess, but Pelphrey is at least saying the right things. That is a start.

Arkansas opens the season Friday against Alcorn State with six scholarship players available to play. Next week the Razorbacks face Louisville in St. Louis and face the same situation.