Reaction: Razorbacks Fall in Heartbreak Fashion in Starkville

Hogs’ continued struggles, this time falling in close loss in first of two road games

Author:
Jacob Davis
Publish date:
Feb 17, 2024 5:49 PM EST

In this story:

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Showing more fight no one expected, Arkansas did play gritty in a loss. With the postseason success, moral victories shouldn’t be allowed. However, it’s better than being routed by 25 or more points.

The Razorbacks held a two-point edge with 1:07 to go but eventually fell to the Bulldogs 71-67 and couldn't score. For the first time under Eric Musselman, the Razorbacks fall below .500 with a 12-13 overall record with just six regular-season games left on schedule.

It’s weird to think about how bad this season has gone. The inconsistency each night has been astounding and frustrating to watch. Answers for why the season has been so bad cannot be given after starting the year ranked and a top-10 transfer class.

At least there’s been a conscious effort to continue improving three-point defense. The Hogs limited the Bulldogs to 4-15 from deep. On the flip side, the Razorbacks fouled a lot throughout the matchup letting the Bulldogs shoot 32 free throws, only converting 19 attempts.

Turnovers have been a huge issue for Arkansas for the entirety of this season. The Hogs finished Saturday’s game with eight turnovers, it’s fewest in a game since Jan. 20 against South Carolina (5).

During the biggest moment with the Razorbacks down one and 20 ticks left, the turnover bug finally bit with Makhi Mitchell losing the basketball down low. Davenport fouled Shakeel Moore which helped Mississippi Staye to a big home win.

Regarded as one of the better shooting teams of the Musselman tenure continues to regress in conference play. Despite making 22-of-38 two-point attempts, Arkansas continued to struggle from three knocking down 3-of-17 shots. Davonte Davis was the only effective three point shooter, knocking down 2-of-3 attempts. Tramon Mark had a quiet day with six points, 1-of-3 from three before eventually fouling out

If there is any positive to be found its how Battle played arguably his best game of SEC play scoring 18 points, two rebounds and two assists. His suffocating defense has been a welcome sight considering where he was when conference play began.

Mitchell continues to play his best stretch of basketball as a collegiate finishing with 21 points, nine rebounds, two steals and two blocks. He took over in the second half during pick-and-roll situations, dominating the Bulldogs in downhill drives.

Arkansas has now lost five consecutive games in Starkville dating back to 2015. Now, the team will travel to College Station, an arena where the Razorbacks haven’t won since 2019.