The Arkansas Razorbacks closed their preseason exhibition schedule with a convincing 93-81 victory over the Memphis Tigers on Wednesday night at Bud Walton Arena in Fayetteville. The win gave the Razorbacks an unbeaten 2-0 record heading into the regular season.
Inside Scoring Fueled the Win
Arkansas established control before halftime, building a lead that stretched to 20 points early in the second half. Rather than relying on perimeter shooting, the Razorbacks repeatedly attacked the basket, creating extra opportunities on the offensive glass. A late first‑half 9‑0 run, highlighted by a second‑chance basket from Maper Maker and a three‑pointer from Billy Richmond, pushed the lead to 48‑34 at the break.
Key Plays and Performers
Midway through the first half, JJ Andrews delivered an alley‑oop dunk to Abdou Toure, extending the lead to 48‑32. Richmond added energy with a lob finish from Jeremiah Wilkinson and turned a steal into a fast‑break bucket against his hometown program.
In the second half, a three‑point play by Jordan Smith sparked a 7‑0 spurt, followed by a jumper from Richmond and a second‑chance dunk by Cooper Bowser. The sequence stretched the Razorbacks’ advantage to 65‑44, prompting a Memphis timeout.
Despite a difficult night from beyond the arc—Arkansas shot just 4‑of‑18 on three‑pointers—the team was efficient inside, making 25 of 35 two‑point attempts with 11:49 remaining. Memphis fought back twice, cutting the deficit to 13 points, but Arkansas answered with six straight points, including a layup by Smith and two baskets from Miikka Muurinen, to maintain control.
What the Win Means for Arkansas
Although exhibition games do not count toward the regular‑season record, the consecutive victories provide encouraging momentum for the Razorbacks. The performance demonstrated that Arkansas can build a comfortable lead without relying on strong outside shooting, emphasizing rim‑running, second‑chance opportunities, and disciplined defense.
Coach John Calipari’s team will look to carry this inside‑focused approach into the upcoming season, confident that the ability to dominate the paint and control the tempo can offset any off‑night from long range.
Looking Ahead
The Razorbacks now turn their attention to the start of the regular season, where they will face a slate of conference opponents. Fans can expect the same physical style of play that defined the exhibition, with an emphasis on protecting the paint, securing rebounds, and converting high‑percentage shots.
Arkansas’ unbeaten preseason sets a positive tone for what promises to be an exciting campaign for the Razorbacks and their supporters across the state.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
