Battle Does Something No Razorback Has Achieved

Khalif Battle proving himself to be high level scorer for Hogs through first two games

Author:
Jacob Davis
Updated:
Nov 11, 2023 7:04 PM EST
Original:
Nov 11, 2023

In this story:

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — "Mama, there goes that man again." That phrase has likely been blurted by various fans in seasons past. Arkansas fans may start saying that if Khalif Battle continues to cook the way he has through two games.

There is certainly no surprise how big of an offensive performer Battle is, even if the 21 point bursts come against mid-major opponents. The Edison, New Jersey, native has been a key contributor for the Razorbacks through the first two games and has come off the bench in both.

That distinguishes Battle as the first and only Arkansas basketball player in the SEC era (1991-92 to present) to score 20+ points off the bench in first two games of the season scoring 21 in both games, including Friday night's 86-68 win over Gardner-Webb, according to Hog Stats.

Battle is off to a blistering hot start from three point range as he has connected on six of ten attempts this season. Of course, a percentage that high is hard to maintain but is very promising for a Razorback offense that struggled to a 30 percent mark last season. A simplified rotation is coming sooner rather than later and Battle has established his mark as the biggest role player on the team.

"[Battle] has been phenomenal," Musselman said. "He is a starter and isn't hearing his name called right away. He's been our most efficient offensive player and stretches the floor. He can play one-on-one and can drop free throws. He had a decent night on defensive boards."

Free throw shooting was another area that Battle excelled during his collegiate career. Last season at Temple, the 6-5 guard drilled 90 percent of his attempts and is well on his way to matching that mark again.

Battle made eight of his 10 free throw shots against the Bulldogs on Friday and has made 16-19 on the season at an 84 percent rate. As the season continues to build there is a reasonable expectation to see that number build.