Arkansas Falls to Texas Tech in Overtime Thriller

SAN FRANCISCO — The Arkansas Razorbacks’ NCAA Tournament journey came to a heartbreaking end on Thursday, March 27, 2025, as they lost to Texas Tech 85-83 in overtime at the Chase Center. The game featured a dramatic finish, with Darrion Williams hitting a game-winning shot just seven seconds before the final buzzer, sealing the Razorbacks’ exit from the tournament.

Head coach John Calipari, who took the reins at Arkansas in April 2024, reflected on the team’s growth despite the defeat. “We believe this was a good season, one where we learned a lot,” he said. Calipari, known for leading multiple teams to the Sweet 16 and winning a national title with Kentucky, faced a challenging first season with the Razorbacks.

Arkansas was in a tight contest throughout, with the score tied multiple times in the final minutes. Karter Knox led the Razorbacks with a three-pointer that had the crowd roaring, positioning the team for a potential win. Yet, the team struggled to maintain composure under pressure, allowing Texas Tech to capitalize on their mistakes.

Despite a shaky offensive performance in the second half, wherein they shot just 30 percent from the field, Arkansas managed to rally back, forcing turnovers late in the game. Calipari praised his players, saying, “When you’re down in numbers, everyone’s got to help you. That’s where we are, and our boys did their best today.”

Texas Tech’s win marked a significant moment, ending Arkansas’s season at 21-13. Coach Mark Adams celebrated the victory, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in clutch moments. “I’m proud of how our guys came together and executed our plans effectively under pressure,” he stated.

After an 0-5 start in the SEC, Arkansas displayed remarkable resilience to make it to the NCAA Tournament, showcasing the team’s growth and potential under Calipari’s leadership. The Razorbacks were propelled to the tournament by a strong finish, including a notable victory over familiar rivals.

The match drew attention not only for the intense competition but for the historical significance of Calipari’s coaching career, as he reflected on his journey through coaching the likes of Memphis and Kentucky prior to taking over at Arkansas. “This is a different road for me, but I’m here to write a new chapter,” he added.

As the players exited the court, a sense of pride lingered among the team despite the loss. D.J. Wagner, who missed the buzzer-beater that could have sent the game into another overtime, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the season. “We fought hard, and coach always believed in us, even when times were tough,” he said.

With Arkansas’s season over, attention now turns to the offseason and the future of the program under Calipari’s guidance as he aims to build a more competitive roster for the next year.