Arkansas Razorbacks and Hawaii Rainbow Warriors Clash in NCAA Tournament First Round
The No. 14 Arkansas Razorbacks (26-8) and the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors (24-8) are set to face off in the first round of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship West Region on Thursday, March 19, 2026. The game will be played at the Moda Center in Portland, Oregon, with tip-off scheduled for 4:25 p.m. ET on TBS.
Recent Performance
Arkansas enters the tournament having won five straight games, including a victory over Vanderbilt in the SEC Tournament championship game on March 15, 2026. Hawaii is too on a hot streak, winning six of their last seven contests, culminating in a 71-64 win over UC Irvine in the Big West tournament final on March 15, 2026.
Key Players
Darius Acuff Jr. Leads the Razorbacks, having been named SEC Player of the Year. He averaged 25.8 points over his last 10 games. Trevon Brazile is also a key contributor, averaging 13.2 points and 7.4 rebounds per game for Arkansas.
For Hawaii, Isaac Johnson averages 14.1 points and 5.8 rebounds, while Quandre Bullock has been hitting 1.5 three-pointers per game over the last 10 games.
Statistical Matchup
Arkansas boasts a strong offensive attack, averaging 89.9 points per game while shooting 50.0% from the field. They allow opponents 80.1 points per game. Hawaii averages 79.6 points per game and shoots 45.9% from the field, while holding opponents to 69.7 points per game.
| Team | Points Per Game | Field Goal % | Rebounds Per Game | Assists Per Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | 79.6 | 45.9% | 39.3 | 13.7 |
| Arkansas | 89.9 | 50.0% | 36.1 | 17.0 |
Betting Odds
As of March 19, 2026, Arkansas is a 14.5-point favorite over Hawaii. The over/under for total points scored is set at 158.5. Money lines are Arkansas -1471 and Hawaii +836. ESPN provides updated odds and information.
Projection Model Analysis
The SportsLine Projection Model, after simulating the game 10,000 times, predicts the total points scored will go over the 158.5-point mark, with the over hitting in 53.4% of simulations. The model also suggests a strong likelihood of one side of the spread hitting in almost 60% of simulations, though specific details require a SportsLine subscription.
Series History
Arkansas leads the all-time series against Hawaii 2-0.
How to Watch
The game will be televised on TBS.
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