In a thrilling SEC Tournament opener, the Arkansas Razorbacks narrowly defeated the South Carolina Gamecocks 72-68, showing resilience and clutch playmaking down the stretch. The game, which saw South Carolina whittle a once-substantial Arkansas lead down to a single point in the final minutes, ultimately hinged on a critical three-pointer from Arkansas guard D.J. Wagner that sealed the victory.
Arkansas head coach John Calipari, reflecting on his team’s performance, noted a familiar refrain for Kentucky basketball fans from his tenure there: “They were trying to be perfect instead of just going to make plays.” Calipari also reiterated his oft-used line, “Administrations win championships, coaches win games,” a subtle jab aimed at Kentucky athletic director Mitch Barnhart that he said after leaving Kentucky last season.
The Razorbacks, led by a balanced attack, shot 44% from the field and an impressive 93% from the free-throw line (15-16). Trevon Brazile paced Arkansas with 16 points, including 3-of-6 from beyond the arc, while adding seven rebounds and four steals. Johnell Davis chipped in 14 points, and Jonas Aidoo, coming off the bench, delivered a double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds. D.J. Wagner’s 13 points, including the dagger three-pointer late in the game, proved decisive, alongside his team-high six assists.
South Carolina countered with a gritty performance, shooting 39% from the field and 34% from three-point range. Collin Murray-Boyles led the Gamecocks with 20 points and 12 rebounds despite a bum leg and a busted lip he suffered during the game, dominating the paint with a 6-of-10 shooting night. Jamarii Thomas added 16 points, including 3-of-5 from deep, while Jacobi Wright contributed 13 points and four assists. Off the bench, Cam Scott provided a spark with eight points, all from perfect shooting (3-3 FG, 2-2 3PT).
Arkansas built a lead as large as 20 points. However, South Carolina mounted a fierce comeback in the second half and had 2 chances to take the lead. Wagner’s three-pointer with time winding down re-established a four-point cushion, and Arkansas held on for the 72-68 win.
Game Stats Review
Field Goals: Arkansas 25-56 (44.6%), South Carolina 23-59 (39.0%)
Three-Pointers: Arkansas 7-22 (31.8%), South Carolina 8-23 (34.8%)
Free Throws: Arkansas 15-16 (93.8%), South Carolina 14-18 (77.8%)
Rebounds: Arkansas 34, South Carolina 36
Assists: Arkansas 13, South Carolina 10
Both squads showcased defensive tenacity, each recording eight steals, while Arkansas edged out South Carolina in blocks (5-4).
For Arkansas, the win reinforces their ability to close out tight games, with Wagner’s poise under pressure proving invaluable. South Carolina, meanwhile, showed fight but will rue missed opportunities late. Calipari and Arkansas will now have a shot at Ole Miss to try to solidify their NCAA standing.
Stay tuned to WBN for continuing coverage of the SEC tournament.