Arkansas to Host Memphis for Basketball Exhibition
The Razorbacks and Tigers meet at Bud Walton Arena for their final exhibition game of the season.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Basketball
The Arkansas Razorbacks are scheduled to play the Memphis Tigers in a men's basketball exhibition game at Bud Walton Arena on October 28, 2026. This matchup marks the second consecutive year the two teams have met in an exhibition format.
Why it matters
This contest serves as the final exhibition game for both programs before they begin their regular season schedules. It follows significant exhibition victories for both squads, with Arkansas defeating Gonzaga and Memphis besting Mississippi State earlier this month.
Arkansas enters this contest following a 76-72 win over Gonzaga, while Memphis recently secured a 75-58 victory against Mississippi State. The exhibition game is scheduled to tip off at 7 p.m.
The players
Arkansas Razorbacks
The Arkansas Razorbacks are the men's basketball team representing the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville.
Memphis Tigers
The Memphis Tigers are the men's basketball team representing the University of Memphis.
The details
The teams are playing at Bud Walton Arena in Fayetteville for the first time since January 2, 2003. Last year, Arkansas defeated Memphis during an exhibition game held at the FedEx Forum in October 2025.
Timeline
January 2, 2003: Arkansas last hosted Memphis at Bud Walton Arena.
October 2025: Arkansas defeated Memphis at the FedEx Forum.
October 23, 2026: Memphis defeated Mississippi State.
October 24, 2026: Arkansas defeated Gonzaga.
October 28, 2026: Arkansas plays Memphis at Bud Walton Arena at 7 p.m.
Season Trajectory
This game continues a recent trend of high-profile exhibition matchups between these two regional rivals. Such games allow coaching staffs to calibrate rotations against formidable opponents before the start of conference play.
Fans attending the game can expect a final look at the team's depth chart before the official season opener. The matchup provides a critical opportunity to see how the squad performs against major opposition following the win against Gonzaga.
The takeaway
Exhibition games provide a vital proving ground for teams to test their readiness against high-level competition before regular season stakes arise. Attending or following these games allows supporters to gauge the team's cohesion and potential for the upcoming year.
Further reading
For more on the current season, visit the Basketball page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by ArkansasOnline.
