Arkansas WBB Falls to Georgia Despite Higginbottom’s Historic Performance
Despite an extraordinary individual performance from Izzy Higginbottom, the Arkansas Razorbacks saw their season come to an end in a 79-74 loss to Georgia in the first round of the SEC Tournament in Greenville, S.C. The 13th-seeded Razorbacks led by as many as 11 points in the second half, but 12th-seeded Georgia staged a late rally to secure the victory and advance to the next round.
Higginbottom delivered a standout performance, scoring 38 points and collecting eight rebounds, setting multiple records along the way. Her efforts propelled Arkansas into the lead, but Georgia (13-18) capitalized on momentum in the final quarter to turn the tide. The Bulldogs’ win sets up a second-round matchup against fifth-seeded Oklahoma on Thursday. The loss finalized Arkansas’ season at 10-22.
“I thought we fought coming off a really emotional [80-71 win at Texas A&M last Sunday],” Arkansas head coach Mike Neighbors said. “We ran out of gas in the fourth quarter.”
Higginbottom’s Record-Breaking Performance Not Enough
Higginbottom showcased her scoring prowess throughout the game, particularly in the second quarter, where she accounted for 18 of Arkansas’ 23 points. By halftime, she had recorded 24 points, the most by any Razorback in a single half this season.
Arkansas extended its lead to 11 points in the third quarter, but Higginbottom was held to just five points in the frame. Georgia methodically chipped away at the deficit, and by the fourth quarter, the Bulldogs had seized control. Outscoring Arkansas 25-14 in the final period, Georgia took advantage of the Razorbacks’ fatigue and defensive lapses. The Bulldogs finished with four players in double figures, led by Asia Avinger’s 19 points.
Georgia’s Late-Game Execution Proves Decisive
While Arkansas had control for much of the game, Georgia’s disciplined play in the closing minutes made the difference. The Bulldogs increased their defensive pressure, forcing Arkansas into tough shots and key turnovers. Arkansas, unable to find answers offensively down the stretch, struggled to contain Georgia’s momentum. The Bulldogs capitalized on high-percentage looks and free throws to complete their comeback, ending Arkansas’ postseason hopes.
Higginbottom Leaves Her Mark on Arkansas and SEC History
Although Arkansas’ season ended in defeat, Higginbottom’s individual achievements were historic. Her 38 points tied for the fifth-most in an SEC Tournament game, while her 15 made field goals were just three short of the tournament record. She was six points away from matching both the SEC Tournament and Arkansas single-game scoring records.
Higginbottom finished the season as the NCAA leader in games with at least 25 points (17) and games with 30 or more points (7). With a layup in the second quarter, she surpassed Chelsea Dungee’s previous Arkansas single-season scoring record of 759 points. Additionally, Higginbottom became the SEC’s all-time leader in single-season free throws made, surpassing LSU’s Angel Reese with her 241st make from the line.
Despite Arkansas’ struggles, Higginbottom’s performance provided a silver lining in an otherwise challenging season. As the Razorbacks head into the off-season looking for improvements, her contributions will be remembered as a highlight in a year filled with adversity.
