Arkansas Basketball Left Out of AP Top 25 Despite Key Victories
For the third consecutive week, the Arkansas men’s basketball team finds itself outside the AP Top 25 rankings. The Razorbacks sit just behind Mississippi State among teams receiving votes, highlighting the competitive depth of the SEC.
Arkansas had an impressive week, securing an 89-87 victory over then-No. 24 Michigan at Madison Square Garden on Tuesday. The thrilling comeback win showcased the Razorbacks’ grit on a national stage. Arkansas followed up with a dominant 82-57 triumph over in-state rival Central Arkansas in North Little Rock on Saturday. Despite these strong performances, the Razorbacks remain on the cusp of breaking into the rankings.
SEC Dominance in the Rankings
The SEC continues to assert itself as the nation’s premier basketball conference, with a record eight teams featured in this week’s AP Top 25. Tennessee retained the No. 1 spot for the second week in a row, earning 50 of the 62 first-place votes. Auburn held steady at No. 2, claiming the remaining 12 first-place votes.
Other ranked SEC teams include Kentucky (No. 4), Alabama (No. 6), Florida (No. 7), Texas A&M (No. 12), Oklahoma (No. 14), and Ole Miss (No. 17). Mississippi State and Arkansas remain among those receiving votes, with Missouri and Georgia also garnering attention just outside the rankings.
Razorbacks Eyeing Momentum
The Razorbacks’ ability to compete with ranked opponents like Michigan demonstrates their potential to climb into the AP Top 25 in the coming weeks. Arkansas will look to build on its momentum when it hosts North Carolina A&T this Saturday at Bud Walton Arena. A strong showing could further bolster its case for national recognition.
As the Razorbacks continue to gain confidence under head coach John Calipari’s leadership, their depth and competitive fire suggest that a breakthrough into the national rankings may not be far off. With SEC play on the horizon, Arkansas will have plenty of opportunities to prove it belongs among the elite in college basketball.
