Darius Acuff Jr. named AP National Player of the Week

Arkansas freshman earns national honors after standout performances

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

Darius Acuff Jr., a freshman basketball player for the University of Arkansas, has been named the AP National Player of the Week as well as the USBWA National Freshman of the Week. Acuff averaged 34.5 points, 5.0 assists and 4.5 rebounds in games against ranked Alabama and Missouri.

Why it matters

Acuff's national recognition highlights the talented young roster that the University of Arkansas has assembled, which could bode well for the team's future success. As a freshman, Acuff is establishing himself as one of the top players in college basketball.

The details

In the two games, Acuff scored 49 points against #25 Alabama and 20 points versus Missouri. His standout performances earned him not only the AP National Player of the Week award, but also the USBWA National Freshman of the Week honor and the SEC Player of the Week award.

  • Acuff's award-winning performances came in games played on February 22 and February 25, 2026.

The players

Darius Acuff Jr.

A freshman basketball player for the University of Arkansas who has emerged as one of the top young talents in college basketball.

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What’s next

Acuff and the Arkansas Razorbacks will look to build on his national recognition as they continue their season and push for a spot in the NCAA Tournament.

The takeaway

Darius Acuff Jr.'s national player of the week and freshman of the week honors showcase the bright future for the Arkansas basketball program and the emergence of a potential superstar in the making.