FAYETTEVILLE, Ark.
— In a pivotal matchup on Saturday night, No. 3 Alabama managed to fend off a late-game surge from the Arkansas Razorbacks, ultimately securing an 85-81 victory that significantly impacts Arkansas’ chances of making it to the NCAA Tournament. Grant Nelson and Chris Youngblood were key contributors for Alabama, each netting 15 points, while fellow teammates Mouhamed Dioubate and Mark Sears added 14 and 11 points respectively, helping the Crimson Tide extend their winning streak to six games.

For the Razorbacks, who fell to 14-9 overall and 3-7 in the Southeastern Conference, Zvonimir Ivisic was outstanding, scoring 27 points. Adou Thiero also played a crucial role, contributing 22 points, with Johnell Davis adding 13 more to the tally. Despite finding themselves down by as much as 18 points with just over six minutes remaining, Arkansas mounted a strong comeback effort, launching a 13-2 run that cut the deficit to just two points in the closing moments of the game. However, Nelson’s timely three-pointer and Youngblood’s free throws in the final seconds helped Alabama seal the deal.

Notably, Alabama exhibited a higher shooting percentage, converting 55% of their attempts compared to Arkansas’ 43%. Additionally, the depth of Alabama’s bench proved advantageous, as they contributed 31 points, while the Razorbacks’ reserves managed only 11. This performance not only solidified Alabama’s position in the top five but also opened a possible clearer path for them after losses earlier in the day from top-ranked Auburn and second-place Duke.

Looking ahead, Alabama is set to face Texas on Tuesday night, while Arkansas will host LSU on Wednesday evening, as both teams continue their respective quests in this competitive season.