FAYETTEVILLE — The Arkansas basketball team’s triumphant return to Bud Walton Arena ended in disappointment Saturday night, unable to defend its home court because it could not defend the rim.
Third-ranked Alabama scored 56 points in the paint and withstood a big rally in the final 7 minutes to hold on for an 85-81 victory at packed Bud Walton Arena.
The Crimson Tide led 75-57 with 6:29 left, but Arkansas cut the lead to 83-81 when Zvonimir Ivisic made 1 of 2 free throws after he was fouled intentionally with 5.5 seconds remaining.
Following a missed three-pointer by Aden Holloway, the Razorbacks took possession down 83-80 and called timeout in the front court with 7 seconds remaining.