A Rising Star in Arkansas Basketball

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Arkansas guard Darius Acuff is quickly making a name for himself as one of the top point guards in college basketball. His consistent performance this season has already drawn comparisons to John Calipari’s previous star players, and it’s clear that Acuff is shaping up to be a future NBA Draft lottery pick.

Since joining the team, Acuff has been a standout performer in high-stakes games. He has scored in double-digits in each of the Razorbacks’ six games against ranked opponents. His career-high 29-point performance was crucial in leading Arkansas to an 86-75 victory over a strong opponent.

Calipari, known for his ability to develop elite talent, has praised Acuff’s abilities. “Anybody that watches it’s killing people that [Acuff] is this good. Him and Meleek Thomas,” Calipari said. “We got two the best freshman in the country. People aren’t happy about it and I’m hoping we’re signing another group.”

Clutch Moments Define Acuff’s Game

One of the most impressive aspects of Acuff’s game is his ability to perform under pressure. With the shot clock winding down and Tennessee looking for a defensive stop, Acuff picked up his dribble and drilled a three-pointer in face of Bishop Braswell with just three minutes remaining. This shot signaled that the Razorbacks were going to close out the game.

He would then connect on another three from nearly the same spot against Ja’Kobi Gillespie, sealing the win and putting an end to the Volunteers’ hopes of spoiling the party at Bud Walton Arena.

Arkansas needed someone with the clutch gene last season, and Calipari’s team struggled without it. With Acuff, the Hogs’ second-year coach doesn’t have to worry about who has the ball to close the game out because he’s proven time and time again he can get the job done.

“To know you have [Acuff], what happens is, what do you think the other team’s thinking, ‘We got to get it out of his hands,” Calipari said. “Now the other guys become even better, and [Acuff] is smart enough to make that play.”

Freshmen Showdown: Acuff vs. Ament

Tennessee star freshman Nate Ament was an Arkansas target throughout his recruitment, and it seemed like the Razorbacks had the upper hand until just days before his announcement. However, in Saturday’s game, Ament was outplayed by his McDonald’s All-American counterpart.

The 6-foot-10 versatile wing struggled for much of the game, finishing with 13 points on just 5-of-11 from the free-throw line and 4-of-9 from the field in 32 minutes of action. Acuff, on the other hand, always seems to be at the right place and time, gathering loose balls, flashing in passing lanes, and doing everything possible to carry his team to victory.

These traits are why Calipari is hardest on his best players, which will pay off as Acuff continues to develop into an NBA Draft lottery pick.

“I called him into my office the other day and I asked him, ‘Do you know why I’m harder on you?’ He said, ‘Because you expect more from me?'” Calipari said. “I said yes, but mainly because I want the other players to see that I’m hardest on my best players.”

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