Arkansas staged a comeback to defeat Miami 76-73 on the road in the SEC/ACC Challenge. After a disappointing loss to Illinois in the Thanksgiving Hoops Showcase, the Razorbacks rebounded with a gritty win in their first true road game of the season.
“I will tell you, at halftime I said we’re not losing this game,” Arkansas head coach John Calipari said. “We gave ourselves a chance, and Boogie made some plays down the stretch.”
Game Summary
The Razorbacks’ offense started sluggish, not reaching double figures until 10:45 remained in the first half. Miami capitalized, hitting key shots and keeping Arkansas in catch-up mode. Arkansas shot 41.9% from the field, 33.3% from three-point range, and 75% from the free-throw line in the first half. Meanwhile, Miami shot 50% from the field, 30.8% from three, and 85.7% from the free-throw line to take a 40-32 halftime lead.
The second half saw Arkansas claw its way back, though Miami consistently responded to Razorback runs. Freshman guard Boogie Fland shined in the final minutes, scoring Arkansas’ last seven points. With 2:25 remaining, Fland hit two free throws to tie the game and followed up with a go-ahead three-pointer. His step-back jumper with 54 seconds left ultimately sealed the game for Arkansas, securing a 76-73 victory.
Who Stood Out for Arkansas
Fland delivered a standout performance, shooting 6-of-13 from the field and 4-of-9 from three-point range. He finished with a team-high 18 points, four rebounds, and six assists in 32 minutes.
Guard DJ Wagner contributed 13 points on 6-of-12 shooting, including 1-of-2 from three-point range. Wagner also recorded five assists, two rebounds, and two steals.
Senior transfer guard Jonell Davis, who has struggled early this season, stepped up in the second half with critical shots down the stretch. Davis scored 12 points on 4-of-7 shooting, including 3-of-6 from beyond the arc, while adding five rebounds, one assist, and two steals. Forward Trevon Brazile tied Davis for the team lead with five rebounds.
Looking Ahead
The Razorbacks return home to face UTSA in Bud Walton Arena on Dec. 7. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. on SECN+/ESPN+.
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