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Fayetteville Today
By the People, for the People
Arkansas Razorbacks Peaking at Right Time Despite Loss at Alabama
Razorbacks show promise for March despite double-overtime defeat to Crimson Tide
Published on Feb. 25, 2026
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The Arkansas Razorbacks suffered a heartbreaking 117-115 double-overtime loss to the Alabama Crimson Tide, but the team is still peaking at the right time heading into the postseason. Freshman guard Darius Acuff Jr. had a historic 49-point performance in the loss, showcasing the Razorbacks' offensive firepower. Despite the defeat, Arkansas has proven it can compete with top teams, picking up key neutral-site wins earlier in the season.
Why it matters
The loss to Alabama, while disappointing, demonstrates that the Razorbacks are built for March and can compete with any team in the country. Their high-powered offense led by Acuff and fellow freshman Meleek Thomas has the team primed for a deep postseason run, despite the challenges of playing on the road against tough opponents.
The details
The game against Alabama was a back-and-forth affair that ultimately went to double overtime. The Razorbacks made 14 of 25 layups, but struggled to contain Alabama's physical play, as the Crimson Tide shot 34 free throws compared to Arkansas' 19. Foul trouble also plagued the Razorbacks, as they became just the second team in 73 years to have multiple players foul out in a double-overtime game without the opponent having anyone foul out.
- The game against Alabama took place on February 19, 2026.
The players
Darius Acuff Jr.
A freshman guard for the Arkansas Razorbacks who had a historic 49-point performance in the double-overtime loss to Alabama.
Meleek Thomas
A true freshman who was inserted into the starting lineup by Arkansas coach John Calipari, helping to make the Razorbacks' offense more potent.
John Calipari
The head coach of the Arkansas Razorbacks, who has guided the team to success despite the tough loss to Alabama.
What’s next
The Razorbacks will look to bounce back from the tough loss as they prepare for the SEC and NCAA Tournaments, where they will be aiming to make a deep postseason run.
The takeaway
Despite the heartbreaking loss to Alabama, the Arkansas Razorbacks have shown they have the talent and firepower to compete with any team in the country. With their high-powered offense led by freshmen Darius Acuff Jr. and Meleek Thomas, the Razorbacks are peaking at the right time and poised to make noise in the postseason.
