Arkansas basketball enters its matchup against Jackson State this Friday with hopes of finding their rhythm after two close victories over mid-tier teams, Samford and Winthrop. The Razorbacks, who narrowly escaped with wins in those games, are facing a Jackson State team that has struggled, currently holding an 0-4 record and ranked 301st out of 365 Division I teams on KenPom. Following two challenging games, this encounter is anticipated to provide a much-needed opportunity for both players and fans, especially with tougher opponents like No. 5 Duke and No. 6 Louisville on the horizon.
One pressing concern for Arkansas has been the attendance at Bud Walton Arena. The crowds during their four home games this month have been disappointingly sparse, prompting questions about fan engagement. Factors like higher ticket prices and the perceived lack of excitement surrounding less prominent matchups have been suggested as reasons for the dwindling numbers. Veteran reporter Mike Irwin expressed his concern over the atmosphere, saying that the fan base is not living up to its “basketball school” label if it does not pack the arena.
Irwin’s assessment highlights a central issue: while attendance may dip during games against smaller schools, a more robust turnout is expected, especially following an unsatisfactory football season. The Razorbacks have just 13 home games left this season, offering limited opportunities to watch promising players like Darius Acuff Jr. and Meleek Thomas before they potentially head to the NBA.
On the court, Jackson State is in a rough patch, allowing an alarming average of 99.8 points per game. However, they do have standout players such as Jayme Mitchell, who leads the Tigers with 16.0 points per game, showcasing impressive shooting efficiency. Arkansas will need to tighten its defense and improve its rebounding, which have been inconsistent in recent games.
As Arkansas approaches this matchup, the focus will be on the team’s offensive execution and defensive responsibilities, particularly against smaller guards who have caused challenges in previous outings. With predictions favoring Arkansas significantly, fans are hopeful for a decisive win that could help energize attendance for future games.
Viewing details for the matchup are set for Friday, November 21, at Bud Walton Arena, with tip-off at 7 p.m. CT. The ESPN BPI gives Arkansas a 98.4% chance of victory, reflecting the optimism surrounding the Razorbacks as they aim to build momentum heading into tougher competition.