Razorbacks’ NCAA Tournament Hopes Dangle Before Matchup with Number One Auburn

Fayetteville, Ark. — As the 2025 NCAA Tournament approaches, the Arkansas Razorbacks find themselves on the bubble, clinging to hope of making the 68-team field. With a crucial game against the top-seeded Auburn Tigers looming, the Razorbacks sit precariously among the last four teams in the current bracketology projections.

The Razorbacks, with a record of 15-10, are desperately in need of a quality win to boost their at-large bid chances. They have endured a turbulent season, currently sporting a 4-10 record against teams in NCAA Quadrant 1 and 2, which raises concerns regarding their overall résumé.

Last week’s heartbreaking loss against LSU at home has made Arkansas‘s path to the tournament even more challenging. “We need to take care of business against top-tier teams. Every game is critical now,” said head coach Eric Musselman. “Beating a team like Auburn would be huge for our confidence and our chances.”

Arkansas’s upcoming match against Auburn marks a significant crossroads in their season. The Tigers, currently the unanimous number one seed, have been dominant, holding a 23-2 overall record and an impressive NET ranking. Their latest victory against Alabama showcased their readiness for tournament play.

“Auburn is a fantastic team. They’re well-coached and have talented players,” Musselman acknowledged, eyes set on the biggest challenge ahead. “We can’t let the moment overwhelm us; we must play our game.”

Beyond the clash with Auburn, the Razorbacks must also navigate upcoming games against several other ranked opponents to strengthen their tournament credentials. Currently projected to have a favorable end to their schedule, Arkansas will have three out of their final five games at home.

Prospects for Arkansas making the tournament hinge not just on beating Auburn, but also on their ability to win at least two or three of those remaining games, potentially against other bubble teams. “It’s time for us to step up,” said senior guard Nick Smith Jr. “We need to show the selectors that we are deserving of a spot.”

Meanwhile, BYU has gained momentum on the bubble, recently earning a significant victory against Kansas—a blowout that not only boosts their morale but also solidifies their placement in tournament discussions. Following their resounding 34-point victory, the Cougars are narrowly inside the projected field but face tough competition ahead.

The landscape of college basketball continues to shift as teams vie for positioning, with many, including Arkansas, caught in the tension of uncertainty. As Selection Sunday approaches, wins become paramount, and every game carries significant weight.

In the latest bracketology updates, the Razorbacks are vying for one of the last remaining spots, making the next matchup against Auburn not only crucial for their tournament aspirations but also pivotal in showcasing their resilience and capability to compete at high levels.