Arkansas' basketball team, ranked No. 20, found their groove again with a thrilling 94-86 victory over Missouri at Bud Walton Arena. The Razorbacks, now boasting 20 wins this season, were powered by a standout performance from sophomore wing Billy Richmond.
Richmond was on fire, leading the team with 21 points, shooting an impressive 9 of 14 from the field and hitting 2 of 3 from beyond the arc. He also contributed four assists, two blocks, and three steals in his 34 minutes on the court, proving to be a pivotal force for Arkansas.
From the moment he stepped onto the floor, Richmond brought an energy that was contagious. His presence was especially felt when Arkansas needed it most. As the first half wound down, Richmond spearheaded a 23-9 run that gave the Razorbacks a 47-41 lead at halftime.
In the second half, with Arkansas clinging to a narrow 57-56 advantage, Richmond took control. He scored 10 consecutive points and 12 of the next 14 for his team, stretching the lead to 65-58. Missouri couldn't close the gap, thanks to Richmond's relentless play.
Head coach John Calipari praised Richmond's performance, saying, "I just let Billy play. We ran things for him to drive today, and I'm telling him just put your head down and go because that's what they're doing to us. It's the softest, most quiet 21 points that I've seen in my 26 years of coaching."
Richmond's recent performances have been nothing short of spectacular. Over the last five games, he's averaging 18.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.4 blocks, and 1.2 steals per game, shooting at an impressive 63.2% from the field. With Karter Knox sidelined after surgery, Richmond's role has become even more critical.
Senior forward Malique Ewin noted Richmond's growth, saying, "With Karter being out, he's just been stepping up big for us. He's in practice every day, before practice and after, getting up shots and just doing the little things."
Freshman guard Meleek Thomas added, "He's shot the ball a lot better since last year. And like Malique said, he's just in the gym, so the work is going to show in the game."
Richmond's versatility has been a key asset for the Razorbacks. "I've been telling Billy, 'Could you imagine, if you make a three or two?
How do they play you? What do they do now?'
He's a Swiss knife. Wherever you want to do with it.
He's a good player," said Calipari.
Arkansas will look to build on this momentum as they prepare to face Texas A&M at Bud Walton Arena on Wednesday night. The game tips off at 8 p.m. CST and will be broadcast on ESPN2.