Arkansas' seven-game losing streak at the SEC Tournament is over.
The No. 21 Razorbacks never trailed in an 80-72 win over Tennessee on Friday at Bridgestone Arena. Arkansas advanced to the tournament semifinals to play Georgia on Saturday.
After leading by 20 points at halftime, the Razorbacks had to hold off a second half rally by the Volunteers. Tennessee pulled to within four points with 2:43 remaining, but couldn't overcome a late double-digit deficit a second consecutive game.
Arkansas (25-7) made 32 of 39 free throw attempts to help hold off the Volunteers.
The Razorbacks made their first five field goal attempts and scored the game's first 13 points. Arkansas led 45-25 at halftime.
In his first game since being named SEC Player of the Year, Bobby Portis scored 26 points and recorded 11 rebounds to lead the Razorbacks. Michael Qualls added 20 points and Alandise Harris scored 14 points and had nine rebounds.
Josh Richardson scored 22 points to lead Tennessee before fouling out in the final minute of the game. The Razorbacks beat the Volunteers (16-16) for the second time in three games this season.
The win was Arkansas' first in the SEC Tournament since a 92-91 win over Tennessee in Atlanta in 2008.