No. 16 Arkansas fell to No. 8 Baylor, 72-67, at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, marking the Razorbacks’ first loss of the John Calipari era. The Hogs’ 11 turnovers played a key role in the defeat.
“This showed me some good stuff,” Calipari said. “We got a lot of work to do. I still think my team’s pretty good. Got to make a shot or two. You don’t have to make them all, just can’t miss them all.”
Game Summary
Arkansas struggled offensively in the first half, shooting just 36.7% from the field and 16.7% from three-point range, though they performed better at the free throw line, shooting 81.8%. The Hogs committed eight turnovers in the first half, which led to eight points for the Bears. Baylor, on the other hand, shot 50% from the field, 33.3% from beyond the arc, and 77.8% from the line, taking a 42-33 lead into halftime.
In the second half, Arkansas fought back, tying the game with 16 minutes remaining. However, every time the Razorbacks closed the gap, Baylor responded. With 24 seconds left, guard Boogie Fland hit a three-pointer to cut the deficit to 70-67, but Baylor held on for the 72-67 victory. The Hogs improved their shooting in the second half to 41.4% from the field, 25% from three-point range, and 82.4% from the free throw line.
Three-Point Struggles Continues for Arkansas
Arkansas’ struggles from behind the three-point line continued, as they shot 5 of 20 from deep. The team did not make its first three-pointer until six minutes remained in the first half. Six players attempted a three-pointer, but only Fland and forward Adou Thiero were able to connect. In their previous game against Lipscomb, the Hogs shot 4 of 19 from three-point range.
Who Stood Out for Arkansas
Adou Thiero had an outstanding performance, keeping Arkansas in the game when it seemed out of reach. He led the team in scoring, rebounding, and blocks, finishing with 24 points on 10-of-15 shooting, including 2 of 4 from three-point range. He also grabbed six rebounds, dished out two assists, blocked two shots, and recorded a steal in 31 minutes.
Boogie Fland continued his impressive freshman season, scoring 17 points and leading the team with seven assists while committing no turnovers. He also improved his three-point shooting, going 3 of 5 after shooting 1 of 8 in the previous game. Fland played a team-high 39 minutes.
Looking Ahead
Arkansas will return to Bud Walton Arena, “The Basketball Palace of Mid-America,” to host Troy on Nov. 13. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. CST.
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