The Hoop Hogs keep their season alive with a thrilling 79-72 win over Kansas, advancing to the second round of the NCAA Tournament in head coach John Calipari’s first season with Arkansas.
Game Summary
Karter Knox put the Razorbacks on the board first, but Kansas’ Hunter Dickinson responded with a three-pointer. In a back-and-forth first half, Arkansas’ depleted roster faced foul trouble, with Knox, Trevon Brazile, and Zvonimir Ivišić each picking up two fouls. Jonas Aidoo stepped up with 16 points and three blocks before halftime, helping Arkansas shoot 54.3% from the field, 36.4% from three-point range, and a perfect 5-of-5 from the foul line to take a 47-44 lead into the break.
The Razorbacks opened the second half on a 7-0 run to extend their lead to 54-44, but Kansas responded with a zone defense that slowed Arkansas’ offense. The Jayhawks clawed back to take a 67-64 lead with 4:55 remaining, but Aidoo’s clutch free throws gave the Razorbacks a one-point lead with just over two minutes left. Johnell Davis then buried a crucial three-pointer with 1:47 remaining to put Arkansas ahead 71-67, and the Razorbacks held on to secure the 79-72 victory and advance to the Round of 32.
Who Stood Out for the Hogs
Jonas Aidoo had a dominate performance with a game-high 22 points on 10 of 19 shooting. His defense was critical for the Hogs as well adding three blocks and three steals in 39 minutes.
Johnell Davis was key down the stretch, finishing with 18 points on 5 of 10 shooting, including 4-of-9 from three-point range, while going 4 of 4 from the free-throw line. He also contributed defensively with two steals and a block in 31 minutes.
Looking Ahead
Arkansas will face the winner of St. John’s and Omaha in the second round of the NCAA Tournament at Amica Mutual Pavilion in Providence, R.I., on March 22. Tipoff time is to be announced.