Arkansas embarrassed Kentucky basketball as turnovers loom large again

Kentucky started off hot, but Arkansas refused to back down. The Razorbacks took a 46-45 lead into halftime, fueled by an uncharacteristic three-point barrage. Arkansas, a team that averages just six made threes per game, had already drilled nine by the break. Kentucky’s sloppy play contributed to their struggles, with turnovers gifting the Razorbacks extra opportunities. Arkansas posted its highest first-half scoring total in SEC play, setting the stage for an intense finish.

First-Half Stats:

• Arkansas Razorbacks: 16-33 FG, 48.5%; 9-18 3PT, 50.0%; 5-6 FT, 83.3%; 14 REB; 11 AST; 6 STL; 2 BLK; 4 TO; 46 PTS
• Kentucky Wildcats: 17-29 FG, 58.6%; 7-10 3PT, 70.0%; 4-8 FT, 50.0%; 17 REB; 7 AST; 1 STL; 1 BLK; 8 TO; 45 PTS

Arkansas came out of the break with a vengeance, unleashing a 15-2 run that put Kentucky in a deep hole. The Wildcats found a spark when Ansley Almonor drained a three and converted the four-point play, cutting the deficit to single digits. But every time Kentucky made a push, Arkansas had an answer. Adou Thiero, who finished with 21 points and eight rebounds, proved relentless. The Wildcats got within seven with under eight minutes to play, but back-to-back defensive lapses and a costly turnover from Koby Brea sealed their fate.

Mark Pope’s squad had no response as Arkansas stretched the lead to double digits again. Despite a strong night from Amari Williams, who tallied 22 points and 11 rebounds, Kentucky couldn’t overcome its 14 turnovers and subpar free-throw shooting. The final whistle sounded, and the Razorbacks stunned the Wildcats with an 89-79 upset.

Final Stats:

• Arkansas Razorbacks: 32-58 FG, 55.2%; 13-25 3PT, 52.0%; 12-16 FT, 75.0%; 30 REB; 17 AST; 10 STL; 2 BLK; 8 TO; 89 PTS
• Kentucky Wildcats: 30-62 FG, 48.4%; 10-23 3PT, 43.5%; 9-18 FT, 50.0%; 33 REB; 11 AST; 2 STL; 1 BLK; 14 TO; 79 PTS

This one will sting for Kentucky, who let another winnable game slip away due to turnovers and inconsistent defense. Arkansas, meanwhile, delivered its best offensive performance of the SEC season at the perfect time. The Wildcats will need to regroup quickly with another tough matchup looming.