The losing streak in Gainesville lives on. It appeared this one was not going to be worth watching with how the game started. With 7:30 left in the 1st half, Florida led 30-11. It was another slow start for the Hogs, but this time that slow start included defense. It has become a theme in SEC play for Arkansas to come out sluggish on offense, but this was the first game I remember the defense being that bad for such a long period of time.
Arkansas closed the gap to 7 at half and got within 2 in the 2nd half. It was too little, too late. Mason Jones carried the team offensively again, but had a hard time running up the court late in the game. He wasn’t the only one. The Hogs were gassed at the end and Florida cruised to a 14 point win.
What Went Right
They Never Quit
Yet again, Arkansas found itself down early, but they came back with vengeance! This team doesn’t quit and you have to admire them for it.
Adrio Bailey
Bailey played a great game. He provided scoring from someone other than Mason Jones. Adrio had 16 points and 8 rebounds.
Stopping Kerry Blackshear
Florida big man Kerry Blackshear was in foul trouble all game. He had 6 turnovers in the game and just 2 points.
Mason Jones
Mason Jones had another 21 points tonight as he nears 1,000 points in his career. He is now at 983 career points.
What Went Wrong
More Shooting Woes
The Hogs shot 3 of 16 from three point land and 12-19 from the free throw line. Unacceptable.
Inconsistent Defense
Arkansas played atrocious defense for the first 10 minutes of the game and the final 10 minutes of the game. No one will win games doing that. Florida finished the game shooting 50% from the floor.
What Now
Arkansas heads back home for a chance at revenge against Missouri. I suspect Isaiah Joe will be back for this game and it couldn’t have come soon enough.
SEC Standings as of 8:30pm on February 18
Like many in our state, I didn’t have a choice in who my favorite team would be growing up. I was raised on Razorback. I remember watching the early season games on ARSN or conference games on JP Sports. My first favorite players were Brandon Dean and Joe Johnson. Great memories. I never thought years ago I would be writing about Arkansas Basketball. I don’t have a journalism background or anything like that. When given the opportunity, I wanted to challenge myself with something new and it has been a blast!
