VCU beats Little Rock 82-72 in season opener

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock men’s basketball team tipped off its 2026-27 campaign on Monday night, facing a road test against VCU at the Siegel Center in Richmond, Virginia. While the Trojans showed grit throughout the contest, the final scoreboard reflected an 82-72 loss.

The game was defined by a series of momentum swings. Little Rock managed to keep the pressure on the Rams for much of the first half, entering the locker room at halftime trailing by a narrow 37-33 margin. The Trojans leaned on a balanced offensive effort early on, with Aaron Clark hitting from long range and Taj Walters adding a three-pointer to pull the game within a single point at 11-10. Contributions from Papa Amadou Kante, who provided energy in the paint, and a late-half layup from Bradyn Hubbard kept the deficit manageable as the teams headed into the break.

The Second Half Surge

The game began to slip away in the middle stages of the second half as the Rams capitalized to build a double-digit lead. Despite the separation, Little Rock refused to fold. Jah’Likai King emerged as a catalyst for the Trojans’ late-game rally. King’s offensive output in the closing minutes was essential, as he repeatedly attacked the basket and connected on two three-pointers in the final minute of play to pull the Trojans within six points. VCU ultimately held its ground, securing the 10-point victory.

For a program competing in the United Athletic Conference (UAC), every non-conference road game provides a stress test.

Looking Toward the Home Opener

The focus for Little Rock now shifts to the Jack Stephens Center. On Saturday, Nov. 7, the Trojans will host Southeastern Louisiana for their regular-season home opener. Scheduled for a 7 p.m. tipoff, the game represents the team’s opportunity to play at home. Fans unable to attend in person can follow the action via the Little Rock Trojan App.

This season, the Trojans play in a UAC conference that includes nine full-time members: Abilene Christian University, the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Austin Peay State University, the University of Central Arkansas, Eastern Kentucky University, the University of North Alabama, Tarleton State University, the University of Texas at Arlington, and the University of West Georgia, with the University of West Florida participating as an affiliate member in football.

More on this story: Torey Alston's Double-Double Leads VCU to 82-72 Win Over Little Rock