Even though he’s not there anymore, John Calipari will always be a big part of Kentucky history. As such, his game against the Wildcats will always be a subject of debate.
His highly anticipated return to Rupp Arena was one of the most talked-about games of the college basketball season. Now, everybody’s looking forward to watching the Razorbacks take on the Wildcats again.
Calipari’s team got the last laugh in their first encounter in front of a sold-out arena. Unfortunately, that won’t be the case again next season, as they will only meet once, and it won’t be at Rupp Arena.
Kentucky and Arkansas won’t meet at Rupp Arena
“Big Blue Nation was hoping these two teams would play twice this season to get revenge against Calipari in Rupp Arena, but they will only meet once in Bud Walton Arena. Coach Pope has been very outspoken about his respect for Coach Calipari, but despite this, he wants to beat him,” reported Sports Illustrated.
Mark Pope, head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats
Both of these teams are firmly expected to be in the race for the top of the SEC, and this matchup, hopefully, will be another instant classic to spark up a new rivalry.
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Whether Mark Pope will be able to get back at Calipari remains to be seen, as the Razorbacks look like a much-improved team after their up-and-down campaign in 2024-25.
