Mitchell’s birthday double-double paves way for victory at Missouri
Fifth-year senior big man Makhi Mitchell turned in a huge performance on his 24th birthday Wednesday, as he delivered his second consecutive double-double in the Arkansas Razorbacks' (11-10, 2-6 SEC) much-needed 91-84 win over the Missouri Tigers (8-13, 0-8 SEC) at Mizzou Arena in Columbia, Missouri.
Mitchell finished with 19 points and led the Razorbacks in rebounding with 14 boards. He shot an efficient 8-13 from the field and was 3-4 from the free throw line.
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“I know it’s been a rough start to SEC play, but Coach Muss keeps us motivated and instills belief in us,” Mitchell said on SEC Now after the game. “We just fight every day. It’s not over yet, man. We’re going to continue to fight each and every game and play our hearts out for the fans, for [Bud Walton Arena], for everybody. Just don’t give up on us.”
Mitchell led the charge for a dominant team performance on the interior. The Hogs outscored the Tigers 56-30 on points in the paint, and out-rebounded them 35-26. It’s the first time this season that Arkansas has out-rebounded an SEC opponent.
“I think our three-headed bigs have been unbelievable,” head coach Eric Musselman said postgame. “I really do. I think Chandler and Jalen and Khi have been outstanding. Not good, but outstanding.”
Mitchell’s big night came on the heels of an impressive performance in Saturday’s close loss to Kentucky, where he had 12 points and 13 rebounds. His impact was also felt on the defensive end, as he tallied 4 blocks against the talented Wildcats.
WATCH: Makhi Mitchell postgame - Arkansas 91, Missouri 84
“I think he’s practiced really hard, and I think he’s been very focused.” head coach Eric Musselman said of Mitchell after the game. “I think the last two games he’s had a different renewed focus. He’s as good as any center in the country the way that he’s played the last two games.”
His impressive run of form has come at a good time for the Razorbacks. With their postseason hopes hanging on by a thread, Wednesday's game was a must-win. The Hogs were up to the task, as they led for over 37 minutes and controlled the game the entire way.
Up next, the Hogs will travel to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, for a matchup against the LSU Tigers on Saturday. Tipoff is set for 11 p.m. CT and it will be broadcast on ESPN2.