Physicality from Razorback bigs ready to flip script of poor season

When Arkansas took the floor Saturday, Eric Musselman wasn’t sure what kind of team he would see. Physicality from the post was something not seen previously for long durations of a game, even in a 63-57 loss to Kentucky.

Center Makhi Mitchell was one of the catalysts for the effort turnaround. The second-year Razorback played 32 minutes, posting 12 points, 13 rebounds and four blocked shots.

The senior converted 8-of 10 free throw attempts which helped him to his second double-double of the season.

“Our bigs were phenomenal,” Musselman said “Thought that was the best game Khi Mitchell has played since he’s been here.”

Speaking of bigs, Jalen Graham and Chandler Lawson played key roles in deflecting shots and rebounding with authority. Graham was in foul trouble early, but played an efficient 4-of-7 from the field, scoring eight points, pulling in two rebounds and one block.

Lawson displayed touch from three, sinking his fifth of the season. He scored five points against the Wildcats. The forward's 7-foot-7 wingspan altered two shots and recorded seven rebounds.

Hustle and grit returned to the team despite its 10-10 overall record. With a Missouri team that's winless in SEC play on the horizon, it gives Arkansas an opportunity to pull back into the win column. Musselman expects both teams to be hungry with the Tigers holding motivation to pull out a home victory.

“If you look at Missouri's games, a lot of close scores,” Musselman said. “You look at the five five Mark less than Missouri. SEC games. Unbelievable. They are playing great.”