Jan 8, 2025; Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA; Ole Miss Rebels forward Malik Dia (0) reacts after making a there point shot in the second half against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Bud Walton Arena. Ole Miss won 73-66. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-Imagn Images / Nelson Chenault-Imagn Images

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 forward Malik Dia (0) celebrates with teammate Matthew Murrell (11) after making a three-pointer as Arkansas forward Jonas Aidoo (9) looks on Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025, during the second half of the Razorbacks' 73-66 loss to the Rebels in their SEC home opener at Bud Walton Arena in Fayetteville. (Hank Layton/WholeHogSports)

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.