Since Arkansas basketball hired its new coach, John Calipari, the fans and the media have focused on this year’s roster. And with zero players returning from last season, it’s understandable why. However, who the Razorbacks are playing is just as important as who is playing for the Razorbacks.
A few weeks ago, Coach Calipari and the Razorbacks pulled out of the Rady Children's Invitational held in San Diego, California. At that point, no one knew who Arkansas would play in the nonconference. But yesterday, Calipari gave the media some clues to where Arkansas is headed in November and December.
“Most of the stuff is done of who we’re playing, and then there may be one team that I try to do a home-and-home with,” said Coach Cal. “But we’re going to play in North Little Rock. We’re going to play in Dallas. You need national games. You’ve got to play in Madison Square Garden.”
Playing in North Little Rock is a given. Arkansas tries to play in Little Rock every year and in every major sport. On the other hand, playing in Madison Square Garden will be a great thing for the Razorbacks. The historic stadium is known around the globe and is where most young players dream of playing.
Much like Arkansas football's annual matchup with Texas A&M in Arlington, the game or games in Dallas will reach the many Arkansas fans living in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Hog fans already travel well, but it’s easier to fill up stadiums with how many alumni live in Texas.