Arkansas almost blew a 20-point lead vs. South Carolina (and other early SEC Tournament notes)

It’s only Game 1 of the SEC Tournament and we’ve already had some fireworks. No. 9 seed Arkansas led No. 16 seed South Carolina by 20 points with 17 minutes to go but allowed South Carolina to storm back and almost win the game.

Over the course of the second half, the Gamecocks clawed their way back, cutting Arkansas’ lead to one, 61-60, at the 4:20 mark. DJ Wagner ended the Razorbacks’ nearly eight-minute scoring drought with a massive three to put Arkansas back up by four with 2:37 remaining. Arkansas survived, winning 72-68, but even that was ugly, with South Carolina cutting the lead to two with 2.5 seconds left. Nelly Davis tried to intentionally miss his second free throw after getting fouled but banked it in, a bizarre ending to an ugly game. The fact that the Gamecocks were able to rally from a 20-point deficit while shooting just 39.4% in the second half tells you all you need to know.

Arkansas moves on to face No. 5 seed Ole Miss on Thursday at 1 p.m. ET. The Razorbacks are going to have to put in a much better effort to knock off the Rebels.

Other Early Notes from Day 1

— This is the first time there have been four games on Wednesday and the crowd is actually pretty good for the afternoon session. The lower bowl at Bridgestone Arena is almost full, with an impressive showing in the suite level and even some folks in the third level. It’s a good mix of fans thus far, with a healthy amount of Kentucky blue in the stands. I’m sure that doesn’t surprise you.

— It’s been a while since I’ve been to Bridgestone, but I don’t remember the big section of fancy armchairs atop Section 114:

I’m guessing those aren’t cheap.

— Neither is the beer! For the first time ever at the SEC Tournament, beer and wine are being sold in the concourse at Bridgestone Arena. In previous years, alcohol was only available in suites and premium areas. That’s great news, but get ready to ante up. A large premium draft or seltzer costs $17.50.

That gives a whole new meaning to It Just Means More.

We’ll have more as the afternoon goes on. No. 13 Texas vs. No. 12 Vanderbilt is about to tip off.