FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Darius Acuff Jr. delivered a stellar performance for No. 20 Arkansas, scoring a career-high 31 points, 24 of which came in a thrilling second half, leading the team to an 85-81 win over LSU on Saturday.
In a remarkable display, Acuff shot an impressive 10 for 11 from the field during the final 20 minutes of play, including three successful attempts from beyond the arc. His teammate, freshman Meleek Thomas, also made a significant contribution with 13 points, while Billy Richmond III added 11 points to the Razorbacks’ tally.
Arkansas showcased their shooting prowess, making nine consecutive field goals midway through the second half, with Acuff contributing to each of these shots—six directly and assisting on the remaining three. However, LSU kept the contest close by capitalizing on their inside game, accumulating 19 second-chance points and outscoring Arkansas in the paint, 42-36. The Razorbacks struggled at the free-throw line, converting only 7 of 18 attempts, whereas the Tigers were much more efficient at 22-of-25.
As the game neared its conclusion, Acuff missed two crucial free throws with just 31 seconds left, allowing LSU a chance to narrow the gap. Nonetheless, Dedan Thomas Jr. of LSU missed an opportunity to score on the following possession. Thomas led the Tigers in scoring with 18 points, supported by Pablo Tamba’s double-double effort, which included 12 points and 10 rebounds.
The match was rescheduled to tip-off 3.5 hours earlier than planned due to a major snowstorm affecting the central United States.
Looking ahead, Arkansas is set to face Oklahoma on Tuesday, while LSU will host Mississippi State on Wednesday, both teams eager to build on their current performances.