FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — In a thrilling overtime clash, Zvonimir Ivisic and Johnell Davis played pivotal roles, contributing 14 of Arkansas’ 17 points in the extra period, as the Razorbacks edged out a 86-81 victory against the Texas Longhorns on Wednesday night. The game was highlighted by Tre Johnson’s remarkable showing, as he set a new benchmark by scoring 39 points, breaking the previous freshman single-game record of 37 points held by Kevin Durant. Johnson connected on 14 of his 28 shot attempts, including an impressive 7 of 11 from beyond the arc. Despite his impressive performance, it wasn’t enough to close the gap made by the Razorbacks.
Ivisic led the charge for Arkansas with 18 points, supported by D.J. Wagner who contributed 16. Davis added 14, while Trevon Brazile and Karter Knox chipped in with 12 points each for the Razorbacks, who improved their record to 17-11 overall and 6-9 in the conference. On the other side, the Longhorns’ Arthur Kaluma posted 13 points and secured 12 rebounds, with Shedrick contributing 12 points, bringing Texas’s record to 16-12 and 5-10 in conference play.
During the overtime, Ivisic was instrumental, immediately scoring six crucial points, including the pair of free throws that cemented their lead. With the Razorbacks up by four points and just 14.6 seconds remaining, Davis sealed their lead by making two free throws. Johnson did manage a quick response, adding a final bucket seven seconds later, but Arkansas maintained their composure. The closing moments were marked by a flagrant foul call against Kadin Kendrick for grabbing Jonas Aidoo’s jersey, allowing Aidoo to make two decisive free throws that ensured the Razorbacks’ victory.
Earlier, Wagner’s three-pointer had given Arkansas its largest lead of 14 points in the second half. However, fueled by Johnson’s offensive prowess, the Longhorns staged a comeback. Johnson’s shot with just over a minute left to play gave Texas its first lead since early in the game. Wagner, unfazed, made one of two free throw attempts to tie the score, leading to an overtime scenario as Johnson’s final attempt fell short at the buzzer.
With this victory, Arkansas completed a season series sweep over Texas, having previously secured a win on February 5th with a 78-70 outcome. Looking ahead, Texas is set to play LSU, while Arkansas will face South Carolina this upcoming Saturday.
