The Hoop Hogs will hit the road before the regular season begins as they travel to Memphis to take on the Tigers in their second exhibition matchup. The game carries special meaning for Arkansas head coach John Calipari, who coached Memphis from 2000-09 and led the Tigers to multiple NCAA Tournament runs, including a national championship appearance. This matchup will serve as both a homecoming for Calipari and an opportunity to support a meaningful cause, as all proceeds from the game will go to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Previewing the Hogs
In their first exhibition game, the Razorbacks looked dominant in an 89-61 win over Cincinnati inside Bud Walton Arena. The offense clicked early and never looked back, with several standout performances from newcomers and returning players. The duo of five-star freshmen Meleek Thomas and Darius Acuff Jr. led the way, combining for 35 points while shooting efficiently from the field. Thomas led the team in both scoring and rebounding, finishing with 18 points and seven boards, while Acuff added 17 points of his own. Both showed poise and confidence well beyond their years, proving why they were two of the most highly recruited guards in the nation.
Another positive sign from the first exhibition was Arkansas’ three-point shooting. Last season, the Razorbacks often struggled from beyond the arc, but they knocked down 40% of their attempts against Cincinnati. While it’s just one game, it’s an encouraging step forward for a team that will rely on more consistent perimeter production this season.
Defensively, the Hogs impressed with their energy and toughness. They recorded nine steals and six blocks in the victory, led by Trevon Brazile’s three blocks and Billy Richmond III’s two steals. Those defensive efforts fueled transition opportunities, allowing Arkansas to push the pace and score in bunches, something that could define their identity this season.
Still, there’s room for improvement. Late in the game, Arkansas allowed Cincinnati to finish strong, scoring nine points in the final three minutes while the Hogs managed only two. Though Calipari used that time to rotate players and give younger guys minutes, maintaining focus late will be an important lesson heading into the season.
What It Means for the Hoop Hogs
The exhibition against Memphis provides Arkansas another opportunity to fine-tune its chemistry, rotations, and defensive communication before the regular season begins. It also gives Calipari a chance to return to a familiar place while supporting a great cause. If the Hogs can maintain their defensive intensity and continue improving their perimeter shooting, they’ll head into the season with plenty of momentum and confidence.
Broadcast Information
Time: 8 p.m. CST
Date: Oct. 27
Location: FedEx Forum, Memphis, Tenn.
TV: ESPNU
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