No. 18 Arkansas (2-1) returned to the win column with a 65-49 victory over Troy (2-1) at Bud Walton Arena.
The Razorbacks struggled offensively in the first half, but a second-half surge was enough to lift them past the Trojans.
Game Summary
Arkansas continued to struggle offensively at the start of the game. In the first half, the Razorbacks led for less than a minute, shooting just 30.3% from the field, 18.2% from three-point range, and 80% from the free-throw line. Despite their offensive struggles, Arkansas’ defense kept the game close with eight steals and five blocks. Both teams played sloppy, and Troy went into halftime with a 27-26 lead.
In the second half, Arkansas’ offense came alive, finishing the game shooting 42.9% from the field, 43.5% from three-point range, though free-throw shooting dropped to 50%. The Razorbacks took the lead with 16:27 remaining, thanks to guard Johnell Davis. Arkansas’ defense continued to cause problems for Troy, forcing 16 steals and recording 11 blocks, which led to 24 points off turnovers. After taking the lead, Arkansas never looked back and went on to win 65-49.
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Who Stood Out
Big man Zvonimir Ivišić stepped up after both Trevon Brazile and Jonas Aidoo did not return in the second half. Ivišić scored 19 points, shooting 6 of 8 from the floor, including an impressive 6 of 7 from three-point range. He also made a huge impact defensively with five blocks and three steals.
Forward Adou Thiero was again one of the Razorbacks’ leading scorers, contributing 19 points on 8 of 15 shooting, including 1 of 4 from three-point range. Thiero also led the team with seven rebounds and added an assist, a steal, and a block.
Guard Boogie Fland was the third Razorback in double figures, scoring 12 points on 3 of 7 shooting and 2 of 3 from three-point range. Fland showcased his playmaking ability with a team-high seven assists and added three steals on defense.
Looking Ahead for Arkansas
The Razorbacks will remain at home for their next game, hosting Pacific at Bud Walton Arena on Nov. 18, with tipoff set for 7 p.m. CST on SECN+/ESPN+.