Game Recap: Arkansas 73 Tennessee 60

Jan 29, 2013; Knoxville, TN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers head coach Cuonzo Martin reacts to an officials call during the second half against the Vanderbilt Commodores at Thompson-Boling Arena. Tennessee won 58 to 57. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports

Tennessee’s lack of experience and depth at the point guard position was obvious on Saturday versus Arkansas.  The Volunteers struggled against the Razorback’s pressure defense early and often.   Jordan McRae, who’s natural position is shooting guard, and Brandon Lopez both struggled with ball handling duties.  Together they contributed 6 of Tennessee’s 19 turnovers on the afternoon.

The Vols couldn’t find a way to stop BJ Young, who had one of his best games of the season. Young had 25 points going two for three from beyond the arc.  Tennessee got to within striking distance several times in the second half, but the Razorbacks answered each time. Jarnell Stokes had another solid game, leading the Vols with 18 points and 10 rebounds. Kenny Hall was second on the team in scoring with 14 points.  Tennessee struggled from three point land hitting just two of ten.  The Vols drop to 3-5 in the conference and 11-9 overall.  Arkansas improved to 4-4 in SEC play and 13-8 overall.

Up next for Tennessee is a home game against Georgia. The Bulldogs are coming off a win against South Carolina.  This will be the first meeting between the two teams this year.