Arkansas Basketball Gains Ground in SEC Race After Texas A&M Loss

Razorbacks move into tie for third place after Aggies' defeat, setting up crucial late-season matchups.

Feb. 7, 2026 at 10:47pm

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Arkansas basketball took care of business against Mississippi State on Saturday, picking up a 20-point road win to move to 17-6 overall and 7-3 in SEC play. The victory was made even more important by Texas A&M's loss to Florida later that evening, as the Aggies' defeat allowed the Razorbacks to pull even with them in the conference standings. Arkansas now sits tied for third place, just a half-game behind league-leading Florida, setting up pivotal late-February showdowns between the Razorbacks, Aggies and Gators.

Why it matters

With the Razorbacks, Aggies and Gators all in the mix for the SEC regular season title, the outcomes of their upcoming head-to-head matchups will be crucial in determining the conference champion. Arkansas has played a relatively favorable schedule so far, but its remaining slate is among the toughest in the country, making these late-season clashes even more important.

The details

Arkansas overcame the absences of Karter Knox and DJ Wagner to cruise past Mississippi State, led by standout performances from Darius Acuff Jr. (24 points, 8 assists, 5 rebounds) and Trevon Brazile (19 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 blocks). The Razorbacks' victory, combined with Texas A&M's struggles in an 86-67 loss to Florida, allowed Arkansas to pull even with the Aggies in the SEC standings at 7-3.

  • Arkansas defeated Mississippi State on Saturday, February 8, 2026.
  • Texas A&M lost to Florida on Saturday, February 8, 2026.

The players

Darius Acuff Jr.

Arkansas sophomore guard who led the Razorbacks with 24 points, 8 assists and 5 rebounds in the win over Mississippi State.

Trevon Brazile

Arkansas junior forward who had a well-rounded performance with 19 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 blocks against Mississippi State.

Bucky McMillan

First-year head coach of the Texas A&M Aggies, who has implemented a high-tempo, three-point heavy offense known as "Bucky Ball."

Todd Golden

Head coach of the Florida Gators, who boast one of the best frontcourts in the country led by Thomas Haugh, Reuben Chinyelu and Alex Condon.

John Calipari

Head coach of the Arkansas Razorbacks, who has emphasized the need for injured players Karter Knox and DJ Wagner to return to the lineup as soon as possible.

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What they’re saying

“we're not winning without you playing”

— John Calipari, Arkansas basketball coach

What’s next

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The takeaway

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