Arkansas punched its ticket to the Sweet 16 with a hard-fought 94-88 win over upset-minded High Point on Saturday night at the Moda Center.
The Razorbacks and Panthers battled through 15 lead changes, including 10 in the second half, before Arkansas created separation late. With the game tied at 83, Darius Acuff Jr. took over, scoring seven straight points to give the Hogs a lead they would not relinquish.
Acuff finished with a game-high 36 points and six assists, setting an Arkansas record for most points in an NCAA Tournament game. He sealed the win at the free-throw line in the final seconds.
Meleek Thomas added 19 points, while Malique Ewin recorded a double-double with 14 points and 12 rebounds. Billy Richmond III also chipped in 15 points and 10 boards.
High Point stayed within striking distance until the final moments, led by Rob Martin’s 30 points, but Arkansas held on to advance to the Sweet 16 for the fifth time in six years.
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