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<p>Lawson Blake has become something of a legend among Arkansas basketball fans.</p>
<p>A year ago, the native of Fayetteville had already secured his place in Razorback history, even as a walk-on who saw just 20 minutes of play over four seasons.</p>
<p>When John Calipari made his surprising arrival at Arkansas, he claimed to have met with a team that wasn’t fully present. However, Lawson was sticking around for his final college basketball season, contrary to Calipari's belief that all players had either transferred or were ineligible.</p>
<p>During the initial meeting before Calipari's introduction, only Lawson, Davonte Davis, and Trevon Brazile were there, both of whom were eyeing transfers. Calipari offered his support, assuming all three were leaving, but Lawson quickly clarified his intent to stay.</p>
<p>“I told him I want to be here,” Lawson shared in an exclusive interview with Best of Arkansas Sports. “He wanted to support our choices, but I was clear about my desire to remain.”</p>
<p>For several days, Lawson remained the sole representative of Arkansas basketball until Zvonimir Ivisic opted to join him, further solidifying his presence among fans who appreciated his local roots.</p>
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<h2>Chasing a Dream with Arkansas Basketball</h2>
<p>Born in San Antonio and raised in Houston, Lawson moved to Arkansas in third grade and quickly became a devoted Razorbacks fan thanks to his family’s connections and his attendance at games. Growing up and playing for Fayetteville High, he evolved into a genuine college basketball prospect, but his aspirations went beyond local Division II offers—he wanted to be a Razorback.</p>
<p>“I only wanted to contribute in some manner,” Blake expressed. He spent a year at Link Year Prep in Missouri to enhance his skills before Arkansas’s coaching staff took notice, leading to a walk-on opportunity.</p>
<h2>Full Circle</h2>
<p>Over his next three years, Lawson primarily participated as a walk-on, earning moments of applause from fans throughout games. Despite being part of teams that made significant tournament runs, the 2023-24 season started a downward trend for the Razorbacks, culminating in Musselman’s departure and Calipari’s shocking hiring.</p>
<p>This change was particularly poignant for Lawson, who had a familial connection to Kentucky. Lawson had even met Calipari years ago and rekindled that connection when he joined Arkansas.</p>
<h2>Struggling for a Role</h2>
<p>In the tumultuous time following Calipari's press conference, Lawson faced uncertainty about his spot on the new roster. After a conversation with an assistant coach, he learned he was essentially cut, but determined, he sought to reclaim his position by writing a heartfelt letter to Calipari.</p>
<p>Ultimately, Lawson managed to prove his worth and was welcomed back to the team.</p>
<h2>Final Season's Setback</h2>
<p>Entering the 2024-25 season, Lawson envisioned continuing a long-standing Arkansas tradition of local representation in games. However, during a routine drill, he suffered a devastating Achilles injury, which required surgery and sidelined him for the year.</p>
<p>Despite his injury, he remained closely involved with the team, observing their remarkable turnaround that saw them reach the Sweet 16 after an initially rocky season.</p>
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<h2>Post-Basketball Aspirations</h2>
<p>Though he had the option to continue playing basketball, Lawson decided to focus on his aspiration of attending medical school. He is graduating with a degree in exercise science and a minor in biology, pairing academic achievement with athletic involvement.</p>
<p>With a stellar GPA and numerous honors, Lawson has been accepted into UAMS, with hopes of becoming an orthopedic surgeon—ideally for the Razorbacks in the future.</p>
<h2>Reflecting on His Journey</h2>
<p>Lawson is among the last of a diminishing breed of traditional student-athletes in the SEC, reflecting on the relationships formed amidst the roster turnover during his time at Arkansas. He intends to support the next generation of Razorbacks as a passionate fan.</p>
<p>“I’ll be cheering them on as hard as anyone,” Blake stated, optimistic about the team’s potential.</p>
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