Thrilling Double-Overtime Showdown
In a thrilling double-overtime showdown on Wednesday night, the No. 25 Alabama Crimson Tide narrowly triumphed over the 20th-ranked Arkansas Razorbacks with a score of 117-115. Houston Mallette sealed the win for Alabama by sinking a crucial three-pointer with just 51 seconds left in the second overtime, showcasing the team’s resilience in a match marked by standout performances from both sides.
Standout Performances
Darius Acuff Jr., a freshman for Arkansas, delivered an astounding performance, scoring 49 points, which ranks as the second-highest for any player in college basketball this season. Despite his remarkable effort on the court, Acuff’s late-game attempts to secure the win for the Razorbacks fell short, missing key jump shots in both overtime periods.
The Razorbacks, who were limited to a seven-man rotation throughout regulation, faced significant challenges as four of their players fouled out during the tense overtime periods. This left coach John Calipari scrambling, eventually relying on two players who had seen minimal action this season, totaling only 35 minutes combined. This situation allowed Alabama, now on a five-game winning streak, to capitalize on the opportunity and rally back from a 14-point deficit in the second half.
Alabama’s Key Contributors
Alabama’s Labaron Philon Jr. had a standout night as well, contributing significantly with 35 points, while Aiden Sherrell also made his mark with 26 points, both of which were career highs. Sherrell further supported the team by grabbing 13 rebounds, helping to secure the victory alongside Amari Allen’s 19 points and 11 rebounds, and Aden Holloway’s 15 points.
Looking Ahead
This defeat marked a setback for Arkansas, ending their three-game winning streak. Despite the loss, Acuff’s scoring feat represents the second highest in the history of the program as well as a record for an Arkansas player within SEC competition.
Looking ahead, Arkansas is set to host Missouri on Saturday, while Alabama will head to face LSU on the same day.
