To Foul or Not to Foul: Texas Tech Stuns Arkansas in Sweet 16 Collapse

In a game that will sting for years, Texas Tech clawed back from a 16-point second-half deficit to beat Arkansas in overtime, 84–79, and punch their ticket to the Elite Eight. The largest sweet 16 comeback in history. The Red Raiders’ relentless defense and late-game execution flipped the script on what felt like a sure Razorback win.

Technically, this wasn’t an “upset”—Arkansas came in as a No. 10 seed, while Texas Tech was a 3-seed—but Vegas had the Hogs at +200 to win outright. For 30 minutes, it looked like easy money. Arkansas was in control, up double digits, with momentum and swagger.

But that final five minutes? A masterclass in how not to close out a tournament game.

The question everyone’s asking: Why didn’t Arkansas foul up three? With under 30 seconds left in regulation, the Razorbacks allowed Texas Tech a clean look from beyond the arc—drilled. Tie game. Overtime. Collapse.

Then in overtime, Arkansas had a timeout left with 7 seconds, but elected not to use it down 2pts before they got a forced, poor quality, rushed look to end the game.

Even more puzzling: Where was Boogie Fland? The freshman point guard out of NYC’s CHSAA—a five-star floor general—was nowhere to be found in crunch time. Without a steady hand to orchestrate the offense, Arkansas’ attack unraveled, committing costly turnovers and rushing possessions when poise was needed most.

No point guard. No poise. No Sweet 16 win.

This wasn’t just a blown lead—it was a meltdown on the March stage. For Texas Tech, it’s jubilation. For Arkansas, it’s back to the drawing board—and a long offseason to wonder what could’ve been.