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The Arkansas Razorbacks (19-11, 8-9 SEC) and the Kentucky Wildcats (20-10, 11-6 SEC) will play a crucial game with NCAA Tournament implications on Saturday. The Wildcats, who are ranked No. 23, are seeking revenge after the Razorbacks ended their six-game winning streak in the Southeastern Conference by defeating them 88-73 earlier this season. This matchup is sure to be intense, with both teams fighting for a chance to secure their spot in the NCAA Tournament.
Kentucky has never, in the history of either program, lost to Arkansas four times in a row. That streak will be put to the test Saturday afternoon.
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Wildcats’ Strengths
The Wildcats rank second in the SEC in 3-point shooting, with a 36.1% success rate from beyond the arc. They will rely on Adou Thiero, their top 3-point shooter with a 42.9% success rate, to make an impact from deep. The Razorbacks have a strong home record, with a 13-2 record and an average score of 74.7 points per game. This gives them an 8.2-point differential over their opponents.
Oscar Tshiebwe, a 6-foot-9 forward for the Kentucky Wildcats, has been a dominant force on the boards this season, averaging 8.7 rebounds per game. In the Wildcats’ last game against Vanderbilt, Tshiebwe had a strong performance, scoring 21 points and grabbing 7 rebounds, but it wasn’t enough to secure a win.
Against Arkansas, Tshiebwe’s presence on the glass will be crucial for Kentucky’s success. His ability to clean up the defensive glass and limit second-chance opportunities for the Razorbacks could be the key to victory for the Wildcats.
Arkansas Razorback’s Freshman Duo
Nick Smith Jr., the No. 1 recruit in the 2022 class, missed the first game against the Wildcats due to a knee injury. However, he will be in the Razorbacks’ lineup for this game. Smith has been outstanding, averaging 19.7 points over his first three games and winning the league’s freshman of the week award for his performances, including scoring 26 and 24 points in the last two games, respectively.
The league named Smith the freshman of the week due to his outstanding performances. With Smith in the lineup, the Razorbacks have become a more well-rounded team.
@lif3nick congratulations on being named @SEC freshman of the week #WPS pic.twitter.com/KoPnZ2VJX8
— Eric Musselman (@EricPMusselman) February 27, 2023
Fellow freshman Anthony Black has been instrumental in the Razorbacks’ recent success due to his ball distribution skills and ability to make good passes. The team expects Black and Smith to form a dangerous duo that will challenge Kentucky’s defense.
Arkansas Injury Bug
The Razorbacks have faced injuries this season, including the loss of Trevon Brazile to a torn ACL in December. However, with Smith back in the lineup, the team has become more well-rounded, and efficient in rotation, transition play, and overall team defense under Coach Eric Musselman’s guidance.
NCAA Tournament Implications
Both teams are vying for a spot in the NCAA Tournament. This game has significant implications for their postseason aspirations. Kentucky has a strong record and wins over ranked opponents like LSU and Tennessee, while Arkansas has lost six of their last eight games, making a win over Kentucky crucial for their tournament chances.
Arkansas has lost six of its last eight games and beating Kentucky would greatly enhance their resume.
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Fans can expect an exciting and closely contested matchup between two talented teams with high stakes. Kentucky seeks to avenge their earlier loss and secure their position in the NCAA tournament, while Arkansas aims to improve their resume and secure their spot in the tournament with the help of Nick Smith Jr. and Anthony Black.
The Razorbacks, with Nick Smith Jr. back in the lineup, will pose a tough challenge to the Wildcats. While Oscar Tshiebwe will look to impose his will for the Wildcats.
Catch the two team faceoff at 2 p.m. on CBS.
