Texas Tech Stuns Arkansas in OT, Reaches Elite Eight

Photo : AP

Texas Tech made a big comeback to win 85-83 against Arkansas in overtime and reach the Elite Eight. Darrion Williams, who had a tough game at first, became the hero in the final moments. He hit a three-pointer to tie the game just before the end of regular time. Then, in overtime, he made the winning basket with only 7.3 seconds left.

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At one point, Texas Tech was losing by 16 points. But they did not give up. Their coach, Grant McCasland, praised Williams, saying he is the "heart of the team" and always finds a way to win in big moments.

Arkansas started strong, taking an early lead and controlling most of the game. With less than five minutes left, they were ahead by 13 points. But Texas Tech fought back. Christian Anderson, who scored 22 points, made three big three-pointers. Williams also made important shots, including a key three-pointer with 9.7 seconds left to force overtime.

Williams had a hard time scoring earlier in the game, missing many of his shots. But he kept going. "I was taking open shots, and they had to go in at some point," he said. And they did, at just the right time.

In overtime, Texas Tech took the lead for the first time since the start of the game. Arkansas' D.J. Wagner tied it again with 34 seconds left. But Williams scored again, putting Texas Tech ahead. Wagner had one last chance to save Arkansas, but his shot missed, and Texas Tech celebrated a huge win.

Arkansas coach John Calipari was disappointed but proud of his team. "This one hurts," he said. "But I told my players that I’m proud of them. They gave their all."

Along with Anderson’s 22 points, Williams and JT Toppin each scored 20 for Texas Tech. Arkansas’ Johnell Davis led all scorers with 30 points, while Karter Knox added 20.

Texas Tech won this game even though their best three-point shooter, Chance McMillian, could not play due to an injury. Arkansas got forward Adou Thiero back from injury, but he only played a few minutes.

Now, Texas Tech will face top-seeded Florida in the West Region final. If they win, they will go to the Final Four for the second time in school history. The last time was in 2019 when they made it to the championship game.