Arkansas Razorbacks 78, Stephen F. Austin 62: Balance

Arkansas was back in Bud Walton for the second of three times this week, and promptly dispatched Stephen F. Austin 78-62.

This was the most balanced effort we’ve seen from the Razorbacks this season. Six players scored at least eight points. Dusty Hannahs and Moses Kingsley both reached double figures.

The Hogs led throughout and spent much of the game with a double digit lead. The only time they allowed SFA to get within striking distance was late in the first half when the Hogs missed 7 of 8 field goals and the lead was cut to six points. But it didn’t last long. Hannahs and Kingsley scored the first six points of the second half, and Arkansas went on a quick 13-3 run to give themselves a comfortable lead they’d keep.

Probably the most impressive stat is that the Lumberjacks only attempted 39 shots. By comparison, Arkansas took 56 shots. HogStats reports that’s tied for the fewest allowed by Arkansas in 30 years. The Razorbacks’ defense has left much to be desired for much of the season, but this was a much better performance. SFA made 46% of their shots, but the Hogs forced 21 turnovers and made it difficult for them to get a lot of shots off.

Stephen F. Austin is a solid team. They came a point away from making the Sweet 16 last year and Mid-Major Madness picked them to win the Southland Conference again this year. They’re currently hovering around the top 150 mark on KenPom.

Arkansas will hit the court again on Saturday night against Austin Peay before facing Houston next week.