Ole Miss basketball earned a crucial SEC win Wednesday night, defeating rival Arkansas 73-66 in Bud Walton Arena, the program's first victory there since January of 2015. After the game, Ole Miss head coach Chris Beard broke down what worked well for his team in the win, especially as they handled a hostile environment.

Ole Miss did not make the NCAA tournament in coach Chris Beard's first season last year. The Rebels finished 20-12 (7-11 SEC) last season and were a bubble team. Beard has March Madness success on his resume. He took Texas Tech to the Final Four in 2019. The Red Raiders lost the national championship to Virginia in overtime.

Ole Miss forward Malik Dia set his season and Ole Miss high in points against Arkansas. The Rebels' win was a building moment for him and Chris Beard.

Ole Miss is scheduled to take on the Arkansas Razorbacks on Wednesday night, and the Hogs are led by legendary head coach John Calipari. Rebels coach Chris Beard is anticipating a real challenge when Ole Miss hits the hardwood this week.

Ole Miss beat Georgia 63-51 on Dec. 4 in their SEC opener. Coach Chris Beard shook up the starting lineup against the Bulldogs by putting guard Davon Barnes in.

Predictions and picks as Ole Miss faces Arkansas and John Calipari this college basketball season. Plus, injury updates and the latest news.

"As a coach, I always try to do what's best to help our players," Beard said. "I have certainly coached some teams where you have to joystick it and coach every play. I have also