In a high-octane showdown between two top-20 programs, No. 17 Arkansas took down No.
16 Texas Tech, 93-86, in a game that had just about everything-momentum swings, breakout performances, and a whole lot of shot-making. With the win, the Razorbacks improve to 8-2 on the season, while the Red Raiders drop to 7-3.
A Tale of Two Halves-and One Big Comeback
Early on, it looked like Texas Tech was going to run away with this one. The Red Raiders came out firing, building a 10-point lead in the first half and reaching their highest win probability at 81.5% after Donovan Atwell knocked down a three to make it 36-26 with just under six minutes left before the break.
But Arkansas didn’t blink.
Behind a wave of three-point shooting and a trio of standout performances, the Razorbacks clawed their way back into the game-and then took it over. They hit 10 of their 19 threes on the night and showed the kind of offensive balance that makes them dangerous deep into the season.
The Big Three: Acuff Jr., Knox, and Brazile
Let’s start with Darius Acuff Jr., the freshman guard who continues to play well beyond his years. He poured in 20 points, dished out 8 assists, grabbed 4 boards, and turned the ball over just twice.
This marks his third straight game of strong production, and he’s looking more comfortable by the week. His poise and playmaking were crucial in Arkansas’ comeback.
Trevon Brazile brought the muscle inside and the touch from outside, finishing with 24 points and 10 rebounds-a double-double that came with a heavy dose of energy and effort. Karter Knox added 20 points of his own, providing timely buckets that helped stretch the lead in the second half.
Together, the trio combined for 64 of Arkansas’ 93 points. That’s the kind of offensive firepower that can go toe-to-toe with just about anyone in the country.
Clean, Efficient, and Locked In
Arkansas didn’t just shoot the ball well-they played smart, controlled basketball. The Razorbacks shot 52% from the field, 51% from deep, and turned it over just seven times. Add in a 40-33 edge on the glass, and you’ve got the kind of stat line that wins games in March, not just December.
That said, there’s still work to do on the defensive end. Texas Tech found success in the paint, especially through JT Toppin, and that’s an area Arkansas will need to shore up as the schedule toughens.
Texas Tech’s Dynamic Duo
Give credit where it’s due-Texas Tech didn’t go quietly. JT Toppin was a force, finishing with 30 points and 11 rebounds.
He gave Arkansas fits inside all night. Christian Anderson was just as impressive on the perimeter, dropping 26 points and handing out 11 assists.
Those two kept the Red Raiders in it, even when the Razorbacks started to pull away.
But in the end, Arkansas’ balanced attack and perimeter shooting proved too much.
What This Win Means for Arkansas
This was more than just a résumé booster-it was a statement. Arkansas has now won three straight and is starting to look like a team that’s figuring out its identity.
With Queens NC up next and a major test looming against No. 7 Houston, the Razorbacks are building momentum at the right time.
They’ve got the talent. They’ve got the shooting. And now, they’ve got a signature win to build on.
Keep an eye on this group-they’re not just climbing the rankings, they’re growing into a team nobody’s going to want to face come March.