Mark, Ellis Bring Hogs' Swagger Back With Epic Performance

When there wasn't much hope, Razorbacks pull through for huge win in Bud Walton

Author:
Jacob Davis
Updated:
Jan 17, 2024 2:39 AM EST
Original:
Jan 17, 2024

In this story:

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Following a three-game losing streak with all losses coming by double digits, Arkansas came home with hopes of turning the negative momentum. They did so with a 78-77 win over Texas A&M Tuesday night, complete with a dramatic shot from both teams in the closing seconds.

The edge Arkansas found in the end came from the soul of senior guard Tramon Mark who finished with a team high 35 points, including a running jumper with 1.1 seconds left to secure the win. Mark, who has been the most consistent weapon throughout the season, asserted himself as the leader of the team. Driving to the basket time and time again, Mark single-handedly kept Arkansas above water and into celebration mode for the first time in conference play.

Body language was totally different on the court for the majority of the game. The Hogs truly wanted to win despite allowing Texas A&M to hang around. Swagger and grit has been missing for an Arkansas team that hasn't lived up to expectations this season. Led by Mark's influence, the Razorbacks regained big mo at least for one night.

"[Mark] means so much," Musselman said after the win. "He's got a snake dribble that he can go in and out with. Has an unbelievable midrange shot. I know people say the midrange shot is a bad shot, but it's been really good for Arkansas. Jimmy Whitt, Ricky Council, T-Mark - it's been a great shot for us. All the stat people they do what they want, but its good for us."

While the game shouldn't have really been this close at the final buzzer, the Hogs had to overcome self-inflicted wounds with technical fouls, an ejection, eight turnovers which led to 12 points for the Aggies, and defensive lapses that freed Wade Taylor up for 41 points. Being able to secure rebounds on the defensive end has hurt Arkansas. Texas A&M pulled down 19 offensive rebounds, one more than their season average. That allowed the Aggies to overcome a 20-point deficit by putting up 25 second chance points.

Throughout the season, Arkansas has seen a revolving door at point guard between Davonte Davis, El Ellis, Layden Blocker and Keyon Menifield. With a solid performance from the Louisville transfer Ellis, it looks like he will be next to get another extended look after a 15 point and six rebound performance on Tuesday.

"[Ellis] did some great things," Musselman said. "His minutes have been inconsistent. Tonight he was great. He was great against Duke. It's a huge boost for us from an offensive standpoint to have El to come in and play with great confidence."

Arkansas withstood a major comeback from the Aggies after building a 20 point lead during the first half. The performance showed they haven't given up on the season just yet. It wasn't pretty, but it was still a positive step toward regaining footing in SEC play.

"We haven't had that swagger and now it's basically the theme for the past 48 hours," Musselman said. "You have to come in and believe and have swag in your step."