Black in boot, but should be ready for Illinois

Arkansas guard Anthony Black reacts, Friday, March 10, 2023 during the second half of the 2023 SEC Men’s Basketball Tournament quarterfinal at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tenn.

FAYETTEVILLE — Freshman guard Anthony Black, the only Arkansas player to start all 33 games this season, wore a protective boot on his left foot Sunday when the Razorbacks gathered to watch the NCAA Tournament selection show.

Black said he feels “all right” and hurt his foot on Friday night when Texas A&M beat Arkansas 67-61 in the SEC Tournament quarterfinals.

“In the A&M game I just jumped up, tried to get a rebound and landed on somebody’s foot,” Black said.

Black said he “no doubt” will be ready to play in the Razorbacks’ NCAA Tournament opener against Illinois on Thursday in Des Moines, Iowa.

“I’m pretty tough through injuries,” Black said. “I’ll be ready.

“I feel 100% good that I can tough it out. I’m used to playing through stuff.”

Black is averaging 34.7 minutes to lead the SEC along with 12.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 2.0 steals. He was voted a second team All-SEC player and to the SEC All-Freshman team by the conference coaches.