Arkansas Hosts Missouri in SEC Basketball Showdown

Razorbacks and Tigers clash in key conference matchup at Bud Walton Arena

Feb. 21, 2026 at 9:19pm

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No. 20 Arkansas welcomes Missouri to Fayetteville on Saturday for a Southeastern Conference basketball battle. The Razorbacks (19-7, 9-4 SEC) are coming off a narrow overtime loss to Alabama, while the Tigers (18-8, 8-5 SEC) have won six of their last ten games. This matchup features contrasting offensive styles, with Arkansas ranking third in the SEC in assists and Missouri averaging the most points per game in the conference.

Why it matters

This is an important conference game for both teams as they look to improve their standing in the SEC standings. Arkansas has been strong at home this season, while Missouri has proven adept at winning close games. The outcome of this matchup could have implications for the teams' postseason aspirations.

The details

Arkansas is led by guard Darius Acuff Jr., who is coming off a career-high 49-point performance against Alabama. Missouri is paced by forward Mark Mitchell, who is averaging 16.9 points per game. The Razorbacks make an average of 8.4 three-pointers per game, while the Tigers allow 9.5 three-pointers per contest, which could be a key area to watch.

  • The game is scheduled for Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 3 p.m. CST.
  • Arkansas is 13-1 at home this season.

The players

Darius Acuff Jr.

Arkansas guard who is coming off a career-high 49-point performance.

Mark Mitchell

Missouri forward who is the team's leading scorer, averaging 16.9 points per game.

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What they’re saying

“This is a big game for us as we look to bounce back from the tough loss against Alabama. We know Missouri is a tough opponent, but we're confident in our ability to win at home.”

— Darius Acuff Jr., Arkansas Guard

“We've been playing well lately and we're looking forward to the challenge of going on the road to face a ranked opponent like Arkansas. It should be a great game.”

— Mark Mitchell, Missouri Forward

What’s next

The winner of this game will take a step forward in the SEC standings, potentially improving their position for the conference tournament and NCAA Tournament.

The takeaway

This SEC matchup between Arkansas and Missouri features two teams with contrasting offensive styles, both looking to improve their conference standing. The outcome could have significant implications for the postseason aspirations of both programs.