Primetime at the Palace Returns for a Second Year
Arkansas basketball programs will open the preseason with a public event on October 2 at 8 p.m., held inside Bud Walton Arena in Fayetteville. Admission is free, but fans must claim tickets in advance to secure entry.
Both the men’s and women’s teams will be introduced on stage, accompanied by head coaches John Calipari and Kelsi Musick. The showcase serves as an early opportunity for supporters to meet the new roster and get a glimpse of the upcoming campaign.
Last year’s edition featured a similar format, though the women’s team was introduced without a competitive segment, while the men’s squad took part in a dunk contest and a scrimmage. Organizers have indicated that the 2025 iteration will follow a comparable structure.
Calipari Highlights the Arena’s Reputation
During remarks, Calipari emphasized that Bud Walton Arena is renowned for its challenging atmosphere, noting that opposing teams often find it difficult to play there. His comments underscored the venue’s significance as a benchmark for the program’s non‑conference schedule.
Coverage of the event will be provided by Anthony Kristensen, a reporter for WholeHogSports who specializes in Arkansas men’s basketball and soccer. Kristensen is a member of the U.S. Basketball Writers Association and the North American Soccer Reporters.