Arkansas’ November Clunker Against Virginia Reveals Problems, Reason for Patience

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Arkansas fans might as well get used to a good ol’ November clunker from John Calipari’s Razorbacks.

This time, a veteran-laden Virginia team ranked No. 9 took it to the youthful Hogs in a 91-72 victory. The Cavaliers overwhelmed Arkansas with methodical offensive sets, familiarity with one another and second-chance points.

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Just when Arkansas appeared ready to chip away at Virginia’s 19-point halftime lead, careless possessions stalled the comeback. The Razorbacks never cut the deficit below 16 points in the second half.

Finding Rhythm in the Halfcourt

Getting to the basket wasn’t always the problem for Arkansas, scoring 38 points in the paint. But Virginia made life hard by holding the Razorbacks to making just 10 of its 21 layup attempts. Those missed chances, combined with 15 turnovers, made it difficult to put together enough productive possessions to threaten the Cavaliers.

The offense showed life in the second half when Calipari had his shooters coming off screens to create enough space to get shots off from the elbow and along the perimeter.

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Arkansas shot 60.7% from the field after halftime, including 6-of-11 from three, with nine assists on 17 made baskets. There was evidence of an offense beginning to function together, but eight second-half turnovers helped keep that improvement from cutting into Virginia’s lead.

Of course, Arkansas is better when they’re able to dictate tempo and play at a frenetic pace. That’s something they’ll have to learn to do over time, and it’s exactly why Calipari likes to test his team against notable opponents rather than feast off cupcakes in non-conference play.

Also, it’s wise to keep in mind that Calipari scrapped his entire offensive scheme just 10 days before the start of exhibition play because he knew it wouldn’t fit what his team is able to do.

Free Throws Matter

Fans are probably sighing these days when Arkansas is sent to the free throw line, because getting a sure two points there is…

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Publish date : 2026-11-08 22:05:00

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