UConn vs Arkansas: 2023 NCAA Tournament game preview, prediction

UConn vs Arkansas: 2023 NCAA Tournament game preview, prediction

UConn

The UConn Huskies have been on a roll as of recent, winners of eight of their last nine.

Led by junior forward Adama Sanago, and sophomore guard Jordan Hawkins, the Huskies have been one of college basketball’s best down the stretch, averaging more than 78 PPG, while giving up less than 65 PPG.

In the two tournament games, they’ve shot quite well from beyond the arc, going 21 for 47 from three.

It’s been well balanced basketball for the Huskies.

On the defensive end they’ve been quite well and have been dominant in out-rebounding their opponent.

The Huskies are clicking at the right time and Sanago and Co. are hard to stop at the moment.

Arkansas 

Eric Musselman’s squad will look to make the Elite 8 of the 2023 NCAA Tournament for the third consecutive year.

Arkansas is led by two players from the Second Team All-SEC in junior guard Ricky Council IV and freshman guard Anthony Black.

They are also led by junior guard, Davonte Davis.

The Razorbacks are coming off the heels of an impressive upset over #1 seed Kansas, where Davis poured in 21 in the second half.

While their shooting percentages can and most likely will improve, the Razorbacks have been playing well on both sides of the floor forcing tons of turnovers, staggering their opponent and winning the rebound race.

Their depth is impressive as they have five players averaging in double figures.

Like the Huskies, Musselman’s squad is clearly talented and has all the momentum.

Prediction

Much like Arkansas’ previous game against Kansas, this will likely be a hard fought battle decided in the last few minutes.

Very few separates the Huskies and the Razorbacks at the moment, as both teams enter with tons of momentum.

I see the Huskies edging out Arkansas by 5 in what should be one of the Sweet 16’s best games.

Prediction: UConn 78 Arkansas 73