Arkansas Dominates UCA in Simmons Bank Arena Showdown, Boogie Fland and Frontcourt Shine Bright
The Arkansas Razorbacks, plagued by slow starts this season, came out firing on all cylinders in an emphatic 82-57 victory over the Central Arkansas Bears at Simmons Bank Arena. This win, which saw the Razorbacks improve to 9-2, was a much-needed confidence booster, especially after some tight contests against less competitive opponents. Razorback fans in Central Arkansas were treated to a dominant performance that highlighted the team’s potential when firing on all cylinders.
Fast Start Sets the Tone
Unlike previous games where the Razorbacks struggled to find their rhythm early, Arkansas jumped out to an explosive 22-7 lead within minutes of tipoff. Freshman guard Boogie Fland credited the quick start to intensity and preparation:
“We knew this was like their Super Bowl, so we wanted to stop the emotions early and bring the energy,” Fland said.
The Razorbacks’ opening blitz included nine of their first eleven shots falling through the net, with Trevon Brazile cleaning up the two missed attempts for easy putbacks. Arkansas’ defensive pressure forced turnovers, including back-to-back steals by Fland, which led to fast-break layups that had UCA calling an early timeout. By halftime, Arkansas was up by 18 points, and the Bears never came closer than 10 the rest of the way.
Boogie Fland Steals the Show
Boogie Fland continued to show why he was rated the No. 1 point guard in the 2024 recruiting class. The Bronx native led the Razorbacks with 16 points on an efficient 7-of-11 shooting and added a career-high 9 assists, just one shy of a double-double. Fland also contributed 5 rebounds and 5 steals, putting together a stat line that hadn’t been matched in the SEC since John Wall’s 2010 performance for Kentucky.
Fland’s court vision was on full display as he set up teammates for easy buckets, showcasing his ability to command the offense. His versatility and defensive intensity have cemented him as a cornerstone of the Razorbacks’ game plan moving forward.
“I wish I’d gotten the double-double, but it’s coming soon,” Fland said confidently after the game.
Frontcourt Duo Wreaks Havoc
For the first time this season, Arkansas started two big men—Trevon Brazile and Jonas Aidoo—giving the Razorbacks a size advantage that overwhelmed UCA. The duo combined for 24 points, 11 rebounds, and 7 blocks, providing a dominant inside presence on both ends of the floor.
Jonas Aidoo, a transfer from Tennessee, looked fully recovered from his early-season injury. He went a perfect 6-of-6 from the field, finishing with 13 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 blocks in just 25 minutes. Over the last three games, Aidoo has averaged 10.7 points and 6 rebounds, solidifying his role as a key contributor.
Trevon Brazile, meanwhile, showcased his shot-blocking prowess, tying his Arkansas career high with 5 blocks. He added 11 points and 7 rebounds, making his presence felt in the paint and on the glass.
“When Brazile plays spirited, he’s unstoppable,” head coach John Calipari said. “But I hold him to a high standard. If he’s not playing at that level, he’ll hear about it.”
Calipari Praised for Defensive Intensity
Despite the comfortable win, Calipari remained focused on improving his team’s consistency.
“We tend to get arrogant when we stretch a lead,” Calipari said. “We give up threes, foul shooters, and get sloppy. That didn’t happen as much today, but it’s something we have to fix.”
UCA head coach John Shulman praised Calipari’s ability to get his team to play hard defensively, even against a lower-ranked opponent.
“He’s one of the best for a reason,” Shulman said. “To have this much talent and still see them playing hard defensively against us—it’s impressive.”
Short-Handed but Effective
The Razorbacks were still without leading scorer Adou Thiero, who sat out with illness after playing through flu-like symptoms against Michigan. Freshman Billy Richmond III, however, returned to action and contributed 4 points and 5 rebounds in 18 minutes.
Zvonimir Ivisic, recovering from an ankle injury, played 15 minutes but was limited. Additionally, reserve guard Casmir Chavis did not dress out, though Jaden Karuletwa made his season debut in the game’s final moments.
“When we’re fully healthy, I believe we’ll be one of the best teams in the SEC,” freshman Karter Knox said. “Nobody can stop us.”
Looking Ahead
The Razorbacks have a week to prepare for their next game against North Carolina A&T, an HBCU competing in the Colonial Athletic Association. The Aggies, ranked No. 326 in the NET rankings, will provide Arkansas another opportunity to fine-tune their game before heading into tougher matchups.
Key Takeaways
- Boogie Fland’s Breakout: The freshman continues to exceed expectations, displaying leadership and all-around play.
- Dominant Frontcourt: The Aidoo-Brazile tandem could be a game-changer for Arkansas in SEC play.
- Defensive Growth: The Razorbacks showed flashes of lockdown defense, something Calipari emphasized postgame.
- Injury Updates: With key players still sidelined, Arkansas’ depth remains a strength.
The packed house at Simmons Bank Arena left no doubt about the excitement surrounding this year’s team. With their roster nearing full strength and young stars shining bright, the Razorbacks seem poised for a strong SEC campaign.