Arizona’s men’s basketball program has locked in a three‑game series with Arkansas that will open in December 2025 at the Desert Financial Arena in Phoenix, marking the start of a multi‑year agreement between the two powerhouses.
A Multi‑Year Rivalry Takes Shape
The agreement calls for Arkansas to visit Tucson during the 2027‑28 season, followed by a return trip to Fayetteville in 2028‑29, while a fourth contest is being explored for the 2029‑30 campaign at a neutral venue closer to Arkansas.
The partnership builds on a memorable Sweet 16 meeting in March, where Arizona routed the Razorbacks 109‑88 in San Jose, a victory that propelled the Wildcats to their first Final Four appearance in 25 seasons.
Coach Lloyd’s Vision for Neutral‑Site Play
Coach Tommy Lloyd has said he hopes to make an annual neutral‑site game in Phoenix a staple of the Wildcats’ schedule, using the venue to test his team against elite opponents and to give fans a marquee non‑conference experience.
Beyond the Arkansas series, Arizona’s non‑conference slate features a showdown with UCLA in Las Vegas on November 2, a home game against UConn on November 18, and a trip to New York City to face St. John’s at Madison Square Garden on December 5.
The Wildcats will also travel to Auburn to complete a home‑and‑home series, while still participating in the Maui Invitational from November 23‑25, rounding out a schedule that includes earlier wins over Alabama and San Diego State.