In a stunning upset, the Arkansas Razorbacks defeated the No. 12 Kentucky Wildcats. It was a huge win, especially considering it was Coach Calipari’s first loss against a #12 ranked team on their home court!
The Arkansas and Kentucky rivalry has always been one to watch, but this game had a special energy. Several factors came together to give Arkansas the edge, including some great defense and the ability to capitalize on Kentucky’s mistakes.
Let’s dive into how Arkansas basketball managed to pull off this big win against Kentucky, highlighting key player performances, impressive stats, and the moments that turned the tide of the game.
Game Overview and Key Moments
It was a tight contest in Bud Walton Arena, and the first half was a back-and-forth battle. Kentucky came out strong, leading 18-12 early on, but the Razorbacks clawed their way back into the game. Both teams traded blows, and the score remained close throughout the first 20 minutes. At halftime, Arkansas held a narrow lead, 46-45.
The second half was a different story. Arkansas came out firing on all cylinders, starting with a 12-2 run that put Kentucky on their heels. The Razorbacks maintained their intensity, extending their lead to 11 points with just under six minutes left in the game. Kentucky struggled to find an answer, especially from beyond the arc, where their 3-point shooting cooled off considerably. Arkansas dominated the second half, ultimately securing the win.
Statistical Breakdown: Shooting and Rebounding
Let’s dive into the numbers to understand how Arkansas pulled off the upset.
Arkansas’s Impressive Shooting Performance
The Razorbacks were on fire, shooting 55.2% (32-58) from the field overall. Their second-half performance was even more impressive, hitting 64% (16-25) of their shots.
From beyond the arc, Arkansas was deadly, sinking 13 three-pointers. That’s their second-best performance this season and the most they’ve made in a road game against a ranked opponent since 2019. Overall, they shot 52% (13-25) from three-point range.
Kentucky’s Strengths and Weaknesses
Kentucky started strong from three-point range, making 7 of 10 attempts in the first half. However, they cooled off significantly in the second half, only making 3 of 13.
The Wildcats held a slight edge in rebounding, winning that battle 33-30. They also capitalized on second-chance opportunities, scoring 14 second-chance points compared to Arkansas’s 3.
Key Player Performances
Several players on both teams had standout performances, making it a game to remember.
Arkansas Standouts
The game was especially notable for the performance of the Kentucky transfers now playing for Arkansas: Adou Thiero, DJ Wagner, and Zvonimir Ivisic. The trio combined for a whopping 52 points.
- Adou Thiero led the Razorbacks with 21 points.
- DJ Wagner wasn’t far behind with 17 points.
- Zvonimir Ivisic added another 14 points.
Johnell Davis also made a significant contribution, scoring 18 points for Arkansas.
Kentucky Leaders
Despite the loss, Kentucky had some strong individual performances as well.
- Amari Williams had a dominant game, leading the Wildcats with 22 points (a season high) and 11 rebounds.
- Jaxson Robinson contributed 20 points.
- Karter Knox rounded out the double-digit scorers for Kentucky with 10 points.
Ultimately, the combined efforts of the Arkansas team, particularly the Kentucky transfers, proved too much for the Wildcats to overcome.
Game Analysis: Strategy and Coaching
Arkansas came out strong with an efficient offense, really taking advantage of Kentucky’s defensive weaknesses. They seemed to know exactly where the gaps were and how to exploit them.
On the Kentucky side, it’s worth looking at Coach Calipari’s decisions throughout the game. What adjustments did the Kentucky coaching staff try to make, and how effective were they?
Ultimately, the second half is where the game was won and lost. Arkansas made key adjustments that let them keep their lead and secure the victory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Arkansas beat Kentucky 89-79 on Saturday?
While I don’t have access to real-time, up-to-the-minute sports scores, you can easily find the final score of any Arkansas vs. Kentucky basketball game on reputable sports websites like ESPN, or by doing a quick search on Google or your preferred search engine. They’ll have the most current and accurate information.
How many times has Arkansas beaten Kentucky in basketball?
The number of times Arkansas has defeated Kentucky in basketball fluctuates as the teams continue to play each other. For the most up-to-date win-loss record between these two teams, I recommend checking official college basketball records or reliable sports news sources.
Has Arkansas ever won a national championship in basketball?
Yes, Arkansas has indeed won a national championship in men’s basketball! The Razorbacks clinched the title in 1994, a memorable moment for the program and its fans. They also have a strong basketball history with several Final Four appearances.
Who is favored to win, Kentucky or Arkansas?
The favored team in any Arkansas vs. Kentucky basketball game depends on various factors, including current team rankings, player injuries, home-court advantage, and recent performance. Check reputable sports betting sites or sports news outlets closer to game day for the most accurate odds and predictions.
Conclusion
Arkansas’s upset victory over Kentucky came down to a combination of hot shooting, standout performances from key players, and smart strategic adjustments throughout the game. This win is a huge boost for the Razorbacks, giving them momentum and confidence as they head further into the season. It also marks an impressive trend: Arkansas has now won three of its last four games in Lexington against the Wildcats.
For Kentucky, the path forward involves regrouping and figuring out how to adjust their game plan. The loss will undoubtedly be a learning experience as they prepare for future challenges in the always-competitive SEC.