NBA Draft: Upperclassmen Headline Top-15 Matchup This Evening

No. 11 Arkansas faces No. 14 Creighton in key Sweet 16 contest

No. 11 seed Arkansas and No. 14 seed Creighton will face off in a highly anticipated Sweet 16 matchup tonight at the United Center in Chicago. Both teams have impressed in the tournament so far, with Arkansas upsetting No. 3 seed Texas A&M in the first round and No. 6 seed Seton Hall in the second round. Creighton, meanwhile, knocked off No. 5 seed Iowa in the first round and No. 12 seed Kansas State in the second round.

Arkansas relies on balance while Creighton leans on Hawkins

Arkansas is led by a balanced attack, with four players averaging double figures in scoring. JD Notae leads the way with 18.3 points per game, followed by Au'Diese Toney (16.5 ppg), Stanley Umude (13.8 ppg), and Jaylin Williams (10.9 ppg). Creighton, on the other hand, is more reliant on star guard Ryan Hawkins, who is averaging 19.8 points per game. Hawkins is a dynamic scorer who can create his own shot and knock down shots from anywhere on the court.

Both teams boast strong defenses

Both Arkansas and Creighton have played solid defense in the tournament so far. Arkansas is allowing just 65.5 points per game, while Creighton is allowing 67.5 points per game. Arkansas has a size advantage in the paint, with Umude and Williams forming a formidable frontcourt duo. Creighton, meanwhile, has a quick and athletic backcourt that can make it difficult for opposing guards to create space.

Arkansas favored in matchup

Arkansas is a slight favorite in tonight's matchup, according to most betting lines. The Razorbacks have more experience in the NCAA Tournament and have played a tougher schedule this season. However, Creighton is a dangerous team that is capable of beating anyone on any given night. The Bluejays have a lot of confidence after their upset win over Iowa in the first round, and they will be looking to make another statement against Arkansas tonight.