Arkansas basketball took a noticeable hit in the latest AP Top 25 poll, dropping six spots from No. 15 to No. 21 in Monday’s updated rankings. The fall comes after the Razorbacks split their two games last week, highlighted by a disappointing home loss to Kentucky on Saturday night that snapped their perfect record inside Bud Walton Arena.
Razorbacks Slide in Latest AP Poll
The Razorbacks also saw a similar drop in the USA Today Coaches Poll, where they now sit at No. 21 as well. While the slide was expected following the loss to the Wildcats, a six-spot fall still stings for an Arkansas team that had been building steady momentum over the past few weeks.
Arkansas did manage to pick up a solid midweek road win at Oklahoma, their second SEC road victory of the season, showing flashes of the toughness that had fueled their recent rise in the rankings. However, the setback against Kentucky proved costly in the eyes of voters, especially with several teams around them capitalizing on strong performances.
Within the SEC, the Razorbacks now rank as the third-highest ranked team in the conference. Vanderbilt made a significant jump to No. 15, while Florida checks in at No. 17, pushing Arkansas down the league pecking order for the time being.
Despite the drop, there’s little reason for panic in Fayetteville. One of Arkansas’ biggest strengths this season has been its ability to respond after losses, the Razorbacks have not dropped consecutive games all year. Head coach John Calipari has consistently had his team prepared to bounce back, and this week presents an opportunity to reset.
Arkansas has a brief stretch to regroup before returning to action Saturday against Mississippi State. With extra time to rest and refocus, Calipari will look to ensure the Kentucky loss doesn’t linger as SEC play continues to tighten.
The rankings may have taken a hit, but Arkansas’ goals remain well within reach. How the Razorbacks respond in the coming weeks will determine whether this drop is a temporary stumble, or a turning point.