In a showcase of elite talent at the 2025 Allen Iverson Classic, future Arkansas Razorback Darius Acuff Jr. stole the spotlight with a dominant 32-point and 11-assist performance that earned him MVP honors. The nation’s top-ranked point guard in the 2025 class powered Team Loyalty to a 164-151 victory over Team Honor.
With NBA legend Allen Iverson himself in attendance, Acuff delivered a performance worthy of the namesake event. The 6’2″ Detroit native showcased his complete arsenal, draining two 3-pointers, attacking the rim with ferocity, and demonstrating the court vision that has college basketball analysts predicting an immediate impact when he arrives in Arkansas.
Detroit-Bred Star Outduels Elite Competition
Facing fellow 5-star recruits like Syracuse commit Kiyan Anthony and Georgia-bound Jacob Wilkins, Acuff established dominance early with 12 points in the first quarter. His step-back threes and explosive drives kept Team Honor’s defense off balance throughout the contest, as he shot an efficient 11 of 18 from the field.
Future Arkansas Razorback, Darius Acuff Jr named MVP of Allen Iverson Classic! Finished with 32pts & 11 assists… https://t.co/xzROWRcWW7 pic.twitter.com/gnwx75txWx
— pinto (@pinto479) May 4, 2025
The IMG Academy standout demonstrated the all-around game that has made him the nation’s top-ranked point guard in his class. His remarkable efficiency from the field caught the attention of scouts and spectators alike, as he shot an impressive 14 of 23 overall and 2 of 5 from beyond the arc.
Throughout the 27 minutes he played, his combination of scoring prowess and playmaking ability helped Team Loyalty maintain control in front of the Hampton Coliseum crowd.
Calipari’s Future Floor General Already Turning Heads
Arkansas head coach John Calipari has wasted no time highlighting how Acuff will transform the Razorbacks’ offense next season. Previously, Calipari noted his belief that Acuff has “an unbelievable playmaking guard who can score” with “unbelievable skills as a playmaker and creating his own shot,” which could benefit Arkansas when he arrives on campus next season.
Acuff’s performance validated that assessment as he expertly balanced his scoring outburst with precision passing that created open looks for teammates. His ability to change speeds, what IMG coach Sean McAloon called his “incalculable pace” was on full display as he methodically picked apart Team Honor’s defense with both scoring and playmaking.
Iverson himself presented Acuff with the MVP trophy, lauding his “killer instinct” and ability to “rewire expectations mid play.” The Hall of Famer drew direct parallels to his own style, telling reporters “That boy’s got the heart of a lion. Reminds me of me, but with better court vision.”
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The Iverson Classic MVP adds to Acuff’s growing legacy, which already includes a 2024 FIBA U18 AmeriCup MVP award and a groundbreaking NIL deal with Reebok. As the centerpiece of Arkansas’ top-ranked 2025 recruiting class, Acuff is poised to lead the Razorbacks’ return to national prominence and restore the swagger to Arkansas basketball.
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