Arkansas men’s basketball is gearing up for an exciting matchup against Illinois at a „planned Thanksgiving event“ on Nov. 28 at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City. The game, set for 3 p.m., will be televised by CBS following the network’s NFL game between the Detroit Lions and Chicago Bears, making it a highly anticipated event for basketball fans across the nation.
Illinois athletics director Josh Whitman confirmed the game during an annual media roundtable, expressing his excitement for the opportunity to face off against Arkansas. Both teams are looking forward to the exposure and competition that this high-profile game will bring. Arkansas coach John Calipari praised CBS for providing this platform for both programs, acknowledging the significance of playing on Thanksgiving, a day when sports take center stage in American households.
The upcoming matchup between Arkansas and Illinois marks the second meeting between the two teams in three seasons. In their last encounter during the 2023 NCAA Tournament, Arkansas emerged victorious with a 73-63 win over Illinois. The Fighting Illini hold a 5-1 lead in the all-time series against the Razorbacks, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this upcoming game.
Both teams will be entering the 2024-25 season with revamped rosters. Illinois, coming off an Elite Eight run, has undergone significant changes with key players graduating and transferring. Coach Brad Underwood has brought in impact transfers to fill the void left by departing players, including standout names like Kylan Boswell from Arizona. The Fighting Illini will be looking to build on their success from last season and make a strong statement in the upcoming game against Arkansas.
On the other side, Arkansas under Coach Calipari will be showcasing a mix of returning players, transfers, and freshmen in their first season under his leadership. With a blend of experience and new talent, the Razorbacks are poised to make a statement in the college basketball scene. The addition of players like Jonas Aidoo from Tennessee and DJ Wagner from Kentucky adds depth and skill to the roster, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.
As the game approaches, both teams will be fine-tuning their strategies and preparing to put their best foot forward on the court. The matchup between Arkansas and Illinois promises to be a thrilling showdown between two talented teams vying for supremacy. Basketball fans can look forward to an intense and competitive game that will showcase the skills and determination of these two powerhouse programs.