Razorbacks beat Texas 105-85, clinches SEC Tournament double bye
No. 20 Arkansas delivered a strong offensive showing Wednesday night, defeating Texas 105-85 at Bud Walton Arena and locking up a double bye in the SEC Tournament.
Darius Acuff Jr. and Trevon Brazile powered the Razorbacks in a game that stayed under control for most of the night. Arkansas improved to 22-8 overall and 12-5 in SEC play with the victory.
Texas dropped to 18-12 overall and 9-8 in SEC games after struggling to keep up with the pace set by the Hogs.
Arkansas found rhythm early on offense and rarely let the Longhorns get close after the first half.
The Razorbacks built a large advantage before halftime and then continued scoring steadily in the final 20 minutes.
Texas had some success offensively later in the game, but the deficit proved too much to overcome.
Arkansas also shot the ball efficiently from the field and kept the tempo moving throughout the contest.
The victory carried postseason implications as well, giving the Razorbacks an important boost with the conference tournament approaching.
Razorbacks build big first-half lead
The Hogs established control early with strong shooting and ball movement.
Arkansas moved the ball quickly around the court and found open looks throughout the opening minutes. That approach helped the Razorbacks jump ahead and begin building separation.
By halftime, Arkansas held a 56-34 advantage after a productive first half.
The Razorbacks shot well from the field during that stretch and forced Texas to play from behind for the remainder of the night.
Texas attempted to close the gap after halftime, but Arkansas maintained momentum and continued adding points to the scoreboard.
The Razorbacks finished the game shooting 58 percent from the field while also knocking down 11 shots from beyond the three-point line.
Texas connected on 49 percent of its attempts, but the Longhorns struggled to slow the Arkansas offense.
Arkansas also controlled the rebounding battle 35-31 while converting 24 of 30 free throws.
Those numbers helped the Razorbacks maintain their lead even as both teams continued scoring.
Acuff and Brazile lead Arkansas attack
Two Arkansas players delivered standout performances in the win.
Darius Acuff Jr. guided the offense throughout the game and finished with 28 points and 13 assists.
His ability to distribute the ball helped Arkansas generate consistent scoring chances across the floor.
Trevon Brazile matched Acuff’s scoring total with 28 points of his own.
The forward produced a career-high scoring performance while helping Arkansas stretch the lead in the second half.
Together, the pair created constant pressure on the Texas defense.
Their efforts helped Arkansas build a lead that grew as large as 28 points during the contest.
Arkansas led for nearly the entire game and kept the Longhorns from gaining sustained momentum.
Double bye clinched in SEC Tournament
The win carried added significance beyond the scoreboard.
By defeating Texas, Arkansas secured a double bye in the upcoming SEC Tournament.
That result allows the Razorbacks to skip the early rounds and begin play in the quarterfinal stage.
The extra rest could be important as teams prepare for postseason competition.
Arkansas has shown improvement late in the regular season and continued that trend with Wednesday’s victory.
The Razorbacks protected their home floor and delivered one of their highest-scoring performances of the season.
With the regular season nearing its end, Arkansas now turns its attention to postseason play and the opportunity to carry momentum into the conference tournament.
Razorbacks honoring Nolan Richardson with statue in Fayetteville
Hall of Famer and former Arkansas coach Nolan Richardson will be immortalized with a statue outside of Bud Walton Arena.
The legendary coach was surprised with the news on the court that bears his name during halftime of the Razorbacks’ game against longtime rival Texas on Wednesday night.
The statue is in the process of being commissioned with work scheduled to start soon. Richardson’s likeness will be featured on the west side of Walton Arena once completed.
“Coach Richardson’s impact on the game of basketball and our state is immeasurable,” athletics director Hunter Yurachek said. “He represented Arkansas with a toughness and intense work ethic that endeared him to our fans while changing the lives of numerous athletes, coaches and staff under his direction.
“His 40 minutes of hell changed college basketball and led to the 1994 national championship that changed Arkansas and our University forever. Coach Richardson will stand tall outside the arena for the rest of time.”
Richardson led the Razorbacks to an overall record of 389-169, setting a school record for wins and a .697 winning percentage.
He led Arkansas to 13 NCAA Tournament appearances including six Sweet 16s (1990, 1991, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996), four Elite Eights (1990, 1991, 1994, 1995), three Final Fours (1990, 1994, 1995) a national runner-up finish in 1995 and the 1994 NCAA Championship, the first in school history.
He coached Arkansas to five conference titles, including three in the Southwest Conference (1988-89, 1989-90, 1990-91) along with SWC tournament championships in the same seasons; two Southeastern Conference championships (1991-92, 1993-94), an SEC West Division title (1994-95) and three trips to the SEC tournament championship including an SEC tournament title in 2000.
In Richardson’s 22 combined years as a head coach at the collegiate level at Western Texas Junior College, the University of Tulsa and the University of Arkansas, he compiled a record of 508-206 (.711) and became the only head coach in college basketball history to win a National Junior College Championship, NIT Championship and NCAA Championship.
Richardson was elected to the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame in 2008, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2014, the University of Arkansas Sports Hall of Honor in 1996 and the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame in 1998.
He was honored with a banner in Bud Walton Arena in 2015. In 2019, the court inside the arena was officially named Nolan Richardson Court in his honor.
Former Razorbacks coach Lou Holtz, who led Orange Bowl upset, dies at 89
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Former Arkansas football coach Lou Holtz has died at the age of 89, multiple reports confirmed on Wednesday.
Holtz guided the Razorbacks from 1977 until 1983, leaving a lasting mark on the program and college football before moving on to other coaching roles.
His family shared the news of his passing on social media, including a post from the Fighting Irish account that recognized him and showed a message from his family.
Holtz was a respected figure in the sport, known widely for his leadership and coaching achievements.
In addition to his time in Arkansas, Holtz’s career included other stops that added to his reputation in college football.
Holtz’s induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2008 recognized his success and long career.
Over 33 seasons, he compiled an overall record that reflected his longevity and competitiveness in the sport.
His record included strong showings in bowl games and conference championships.
He was also honored in one of his final public appearances as an honorary captain during a Razorbacks game in Fayetteville.
Holtz’s tenure with the Razorbacks
Holtz took over the Arkansas football program after the 1976 season when Frank Broyles transitioned to a full-time athletic director role.
From 1977 to 1983, Holtz led the Hogs to a 61-21-2 record, including three bowl wins.
There were two seasons during his tenure where the team reached double-digit wins, showing consistency under his leadership.
One of his most notable achievements with the Razorbacks was a major victory in the Orange Bowl against the No. 2 Oklahoma Sooners.
That season ended with Arkansas ranked No. 3 in the final AP Poll, capped by that postseason result.
Holtz also dealt with tough losses, including a close contest against rival Texas that ended with controversy.
After his time with the Hogs, he spent two seasons at Minnesota before moving on to other coaching roles.
His career continued in other programs where he remained influential in the sport.
Holtz’s leadership and approach to the game influenced players and coaches throughout his years on the sidelines.
Official response and legacy
The Arkansas Razorback Football account on social media posted a statement honoring Holtz, noting his tenure and offering thoughts for his family.
Holtz’s leadership and dedication to the sport helped shape the Razorbacks during his time in Fayetteville.
His commitment to college football was reflected in his Hall of Fame induction and the respect he earned from fans and fellow coaches.
As news of his passing spread, former players, colleagues and fans reflected on his contributions to the game.
Holtz’s long coaching career and accomplishments will remain part of college football history.
His influence continues to be recognized across programs and fan communities connected to his work.
Bud Light Morning Rush Podcast: 03-04-26
No Tye, No Tommy, but still plenty of fun with Colton Little & Zach Arns breaking down the new deal with Tyson Chicken, Hogs and Horns tonight and more!
Guests: Richard Davenport!
Tyson partnership gives Razorbacks jersey patch NIL boost
The connection between the state of Arkansas and its flagship university took another step forward this week as Tyson Foods expanded its relationship with the Arkansas athletics department through a major sponsorship agreement.
The deal will place Tyson’s brand across Arkansas athletics beginning next season, including jersey patches worn by athletes across all varsity sports. The agreement strengthens an already familiar relationship between the company and the university’s athletic programs.
College athletics leaders across the country have been searching for new ways to support student-athletes since name, image and likeness opportunities became part of the sports landscape. The new arrangement involving the Razorbacks reflects that shift.
Arkansas officials say the partnership is designed to provide additional financial support tied to NIL activities involving student-athletes while also expanding the school’s connection with one of the state’s most recognizable companies.
For many fans around the country, Arkansas is often associated with large businesses based in Northwest Arkansas. The new deal brings another one of those companies into a more visible role with Razorbacks athletics.
The sponsorship also highlights how programs in the SEC are exploring new methods to remain competitive as the financial structure of college sports continues to evolve.
Athletic departments are now balancing traditional sponsorship opportunities with NIL partnerships that allow student-athletes to benefit directly from the attention their programs generate.
Arkansas leaders believe this partnership will strengthen the program’s position as schools across the country adapt to the new model of college athletics.
Tyson deal expands corporate presence with Arkansas athletics
The agreement names Tyson Foods as the lead sponsor for jersey patches worn by athletes across all 19 varsity sports at Arkansas.
That move places the company’s brand in a highly visible position during games, broadcasts and promotional materials connected to Razorbacks athletics.
Programs across the country have begun exploring jersey patches as a way to generate new revenue, but the approach remains relatively new among major college athletic departments.
Arkansas joins a small number of schools using the strategy to bring additional financial support into their programs.
The company already has deep roots in the state, with headquarters located in Springdale, just minutes from the Fayetteville campus.
Because of that connection, the partnership represents a collaboration between two organizations closely tied to the identity of Northwest Arkansas.
The visibility created by the jersey patches means the Tyson brand will appear when Arkansas teams compete across the country in multiple sports.
Officials believe the agreement helps highlight both the university and the company during nationally televised events and major competitions.
Majority of funding tied to NIL opportunities
One of the most important parts of the agreement is how the financial support will be used.
Reports connected to the deal indicate that a large percentage of the funding associated with the partnership is expected to go directly toward NIL opportunities for athletes.
Approximately 90 percent of the funding is expected to be directed toward student-athletes through marketing activities, brand partnerships and promotional appearances.
That approach reflects how NIL has reshaped the financial structure of college athletics.
Instead of athletic departments controlling all revenue tied to sponsorship agreements, some of those resources now connect directly to student-athletes.
The goal is to provide athletes with additional ways to earn compensation while representing the university.
Arkansas officials believe that structure could help the program stay competitive with other SEC schools that have already developed strong NIL opportunities.
As recruiting continues to evolve, the ability to offer meaningful NIL partnerships has become an important part of building rosters across multiple sports.
Arkansas leaders see long-term benefits
Athletics director Hunter Yurachek said the partnership demonstrates the strength of the relationship between Arkansas athletics and major companies in the state.
“Having Tyson Foods incorporated across our varsity teams and venues sends a powerful message about the caliber of our programs and the type of talent we can bring to the university,” Yurachek said. “We are grateful for our continued partnership and thrilled to showcase this collaboration to the nation every time our teams compete.”
The athletic director said the agreement also reinforces how businesses in Arkansas continue to support the university’s athletic programs.
Branding tied to the sponsorship is expected to appear in several venues connected to Razorbacks athletics.
In addition to jersey patches, the company will also be recognized as the official protein partner for Arkansas athletics.
That designation could lead to additional marketing campaigns involving athletes and Tyson products.
Nashville Sports Radio’s Bill King on college football craziness this year
With more and more reports of players possibly just leaving teams in the spring, daring NCAA to try and stop them these days.
Razorbacks’ Trevon Brazile on final game Wednesday night in big one
With the Texas Longhorns coming to town, it will finish Brazile’s time at Arkansas and he reflected on that with the media.
Razorbacks defeat Oral Roberts behind Aloy, Stewart at Baum-Walker
No. 6 Arkansas used timely hitting and steady pitching to handle Oral Roberts on Tuesday night, earning a 10-2 victory in a midweek matchup at Baum-Walker Stadium.
The Razorbacks put together multiple scoring bursts and received strong performances across the lineup to improve their early-season record.
The win pushed Arkansas to 10-3 overall and gave the club a 3-1 record in midweek contests this season.
The Hogs had previously defeated Tarleton State and split a pair of games with Arkansas State before Tuesday’s meeting with the Golden Eagles.
Oral Roberts struck first with a run in the top of the second inning, briefly putting the visitors ahead. The Razorbacks quickly answered in the bottom half of the frame, using a string of hits to take control of the game.
Zack Stewart played a key role in that response. The Arkansas outfielder finished the night 3-for-4 with a double, an RBI and a walk, helping ignite the offense early and keep pressure on the Oral Roberts pitching staff throughout the game.
Stewart’s RBI single began a four-run inning that flipped the momentum. By the time the inning ended, the Razorbacks had turned a deficit into a comfortable 4-1 lead.
Arkansas never gave that advantage back.
Big offensive frames fuel Arkansas victory
The Hogs continued building their lead in the middle innings, adding another surge in the fourth. TJ Pompey opened the inning with his first home run of the season, a shot that energized the crowd and set the tone for another rally.
Later in the inning, Kuhio Aloy delivered one of the biggest swings of the night. The Razorbacks’ designated hitter lined a double into the left-center field gap that brought home two runs.
That hit pushed Arkansas further in front and highlighted Aloy’s productive performance. He finished the game 2-for-4 with a double and four RBIs.
Aloy’s contributions didn’t stop there. He later crossed the plate on a wild pitch, giving the Razorbacks an 8-1 advantage as the offense continued to pile up runs.
The Hogs added two more runs in the fifth inning. A wild pitch allowed one run to score, and Aloy capped the scoring with an RBI groundout that pushed the lead to 10-1.
Four Arkansas hitters recorded multi-hit games in the contest. Stewart led the way with three hits, while Ryder Helfrick and Maika Niu also contributed multiple hits to support the lineup’s balanced attack.
Helfrick reached base several times and finished 2-for-2 with two walks. The catcher has been one of the team’s most productive hitters early in the season and continued that trend in the win.
Razorback pitchers combine for strong outing
While the offense generated runs, the Arkansas pitching staff delivered a steady performance that kept the Golden Eagles from mounting a comeback.
James DeCremer made his second start of the season and worked the first two innings. The right-hander allowed one run while recording a strikeout before handing the ball to the bullpen.
Reliever Ethan McElvain earned the win and improved to 2-0 on the year. He tossed a scoreless inning and struck out three batters during his outing.
The Razorbacks used several arms in relief to cover the remainder of the game. Tate McGuire, Jackson Kircher, Mark Brissey and Jordan Martin each delivered scoreless appearances.
Martin, a true freshman, made his collegiate debut and worked a clean inning.
Overall, Arkansas pitchers combined for 11 strikeouts across nine innings while allowing just two runs.
Oral Roberts scored its second run in the seventh inning on a solo home run, but by that point the Razorbacks already had the game firmly in hand.
Razorbacks continue homestand
With the victory secured, the Hogs shifted their attention to the upcoming weekend series. Arkansas will host Stetson in a four-game set beginning Friday at Baum-Walker Stadium.
The series will mark the final non-conference weekend matchup of the regular season for the Razorbacks. Arkansas has been dominant in those situations at home, entering the weekend with a long streak of non-conference weekend series wins in Fayetteville.
Tuesday’s win showed the type of balance Arkansas hopes to maintain as the season moves forward. The Razorbacks combined timely hitting, depth at the plate and strong bullpen work to secure the midweek victory.
If that formula continues, the Hogs could carry momentum into the upcoming weekend series and deeper into the season.
