Arkansas Proves Depth, Leadership in Overtime Win Over Missouri

Razorbacks show they can win without relying solely on star player Darius Acuff

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Arkansas proved it can defeat quality opponents on the road even without star point guard Darius Acuff leading the way, as multiple players stepped up to make key plays in the Razorbacks' overtime win against Missouri. The victory suggests Arkansas has the balance and veteran leadership required to make a deep postseason run.

Why it matters

This game highlights Arkansas' ability to win without relying solely on its star player, Darius Acuff. If the Razorbacks can defeat tournament-caliber opponents even when Acuff is limited, it raises their ceiling as a team heading into March. The win also demonstrates Arkansas' depth and veteran leadership, which will be crucial factors in the team's postseason success.

The details

Despite Acuff playing through an ankle injury and scoring a team-high 31 points, Arkansas got key contributions from other players to secure the overtime victory. Freshman Meleek Thomas scored 28 points, including 5-of-6 shooting from three-point range, while Trevon Brazile added 19 points. DJ Wagner also played a solid all-around game with 10 points, 5 assists, and only 3 turnovers in 45 minutes. The Razorbacks showed they can win without relying on Acuff to carry the entire offense.

  • Arkansas defeated Missouri in overtime on March 4, 2026.

The players

Darius Acuff

Arkansas' star point guard who played through an ankle injury to score a team-high 31 points.

Meleek Thomas

Arkansas freshman who scored 28 points, including 5-of-6 shooting from three-point range, in the win over Missouri.

Trevon Brazile

Arkansas player who scored 19 points, including a key three-pointer, in the overtime victory.

DJ Wagner

Arkansas guard who played all 45 minutes and contributed 10 points, 5 assists, and only 3 turnovers.

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What’s next

Arkansas enters the final week ahead of Selection Sunday as the top No. 5 seed in the field. There is a chance that the Razorbacks can make the SEC Tournament Championship game, which could move them up to the last No. 4 seed.

The takeaway

This game proves that Arkansas has the depth, leadership, and balance to make a deep postseason run, even if they don't rely solely on their star player Darius Acuff. The Razorbacks showed they can win tough road games against quality opponents, which bodes well for their NCAA Tournament hopes.