Meleek Thomas scored a career-high 28 points – the most points by a Razorback this season and second-most in the John Calipari era – to lead #18 Arkansas to a 103-74 victory over James Madison Monday night at Bud Walton Arena.

Thomas, who made a career-high six 3-pointers for the game, scored 14 of his 28 points during a 19-3 run midway through the first half to lead 32-12 and set the tone in the decisive win.

Down 20 at the break, JMU traded baskets with Arkansas early in the second half. The Dukes got to within 15 with 11:18 left before the Razorbacks put the game out of reach with a 21-5 run over the next six minutes to lead 93-16. D.J. Wagner helped lead the second-half surge with 10 points, making 3-of-3 from deep, with three assists and zero turnovers. Wagner finished with 14 points.

In addition to Thomas’ career game, Darius Acuff Jr. scored a quiet 17 points with six assists and one turnover. Malique Ewin added 11 points, nine rebounds and tied a career-high with three steals.

Billy Richmond III tied a career high with six assists while Trevon Brazile posted eight points, three assists, three blocked shots and two steals.

Arkansas made a season-high 15 3-pointers, shooting a season- best 53.6% from deep. However, JMU made 12 triples, but only shot 37.5%.

The Dukes were led by Bradley Douglas’ 19 points and Justin McBride scored 13.

Arkansas begins SEC play on Jan. 3 (Saturday) when #19/20 Tennessee comes to Bud Walton Arena. Tipoff is set for 2 pm (CT) and the game will be televised on ESPN2.