How Hog Fans, Media Reacted To Tale Of Two Halves
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The Arkansas Razorbacks found a way to grab victory out of the jaws of defeat in the opening round game of the SEC Tournament. The game wasn’t particularly pretty considering the amount of turnovers committed by the Hogs at crucial points.
When the Razorbacks fell behind 15 points in the second half, deja vu crept in. Eric Musselman was close to being owned by Jerry Stackhouse who is likely on the hot seat at Vanderbilt.
During the middle 20 minutes of play, Arkansas was not playing to its strengths which brought them momentum late in the season. Forced jump shots and costly turnovers on consecutive possessions made it appear the Commodores were in control.
The question of Layden Blocker's disappearing act gained traction throughout social media Wednesday night. The true freshman and Little Rock native was issued his fourth consecutive 'DNP: Coach's Decision.
Jalen Graham and Keyon Menifield have been missing in action over the past couple of weeks. It was noted Graham was taking care of business back home but no word was shared on the Washington transfer. Per an Arkansas communications release, Menifield was working on academics.
Arkansas was down a bucket with over six minutes left in the first half. Vanderbilt then went on a 16-4 run right before the half to go up 41-27. The Commodores stretched their lead to 15 with 17:24 remaining and looked in complete control up 51-35.
The Razorbacks were searching for offense for much of the middle portion of the game. Then, a pair of monumental back-to-back threes helped cut the deficit to five for Arkansas.
Makhi Mitchell continues his strong two month stretch of ball. The pick-n-roll offense predicated on his ability to drive to the rim has been nearly impossible to defend for defenses. He's put up 15 points, six rebounds and two blocks since Jan. 27.
It's been a season to forget from a productivity standpoint for Trevon Brazile. He's shown bright spots like the Duke game and this past weekend against Alabama. Against Vanderbilt, this might have been his most complete performance since returning from injury.
When the Razorbacks led by four with 17 seconds to go, it seemed like Arkansas would find a way to put the game to rest. Oh, the vaunted full court press.
A turnover by Khalif Battle allowed Vanderbilt to score four points in eight seconds to force overtime in Nashville. Luckily, big time shot making and trips to the foul line kept the Razorbacks from flying back home early. For Musselman, he has still not lost an opening round conference tournament game since becoming head coach in 2019.
At least with the team Arkansas has placed on the floor recently has been hitting free throws. No, the Razorbacks haven't won many contests during the month of February but it could be worse. Like, going 4-of-21 from the free throw line.
Arkansas as a team shot a combined 23-of-26 from the charity stripe. A rather impressive number considering where the team was for the first three months.
Despite the lack of success throughout the season, Arkansas prolonged its postseason stay for at least another night with a 90-85 win. At least it felt good not to lose to Vanderbilt a fourth straight time.
HOG FEED:
• Arkansas avoids Wednesday sadness with victory over Vanderbilt
• Tight ends could be heavily featured in Petrino offense
• Path to NCAA Tournament goes through two men Eric Musselman has proven he can no longer beat
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