PORTLAND, Ore. (Interstat) — Arkansas raced to a commanding first-half lead and never looked back, defeating Hawaii 97-78 in a men’s NCAA Division I tournament game Thursday at Moda Center.

The Razorbacks built an 18-point halftime advantage, leading 54-36, and maintained control throughout the second half before a crowd of 12,104. The Warriors could not close the gap despite a higher-scoring second period.

The victory improved Arkansas’ record to 27-8, while Hawaii finished its season at 24-9. Arkansas, a heavy pregame favorite, advanced in the tournament bracket.