The Arkansas Razorbacks women’s basketball team is set to tip off their 2024-25 campaign with an exhibition game against Northeastern State, providing fans an early glimpse of the squad before the official season begins. The matchup, which will take place at Bud Walton Arena, will be a valuable opportunity for head coach Mike Neighbors and his team to evaluate their strengths and areas for improvement as they prepare for a highly competitive season in the SEC.
Coming off a strong 2023-24 season, Arkansas has high hopes for the upcoming year. With a mix of returning veterans and a highly talented incoming class, the Razorbacks are looking to build on their recent success and make a deeper run in the NCAA tournament. Key returners such as guard Samara Spencer and forward Erynn Barnum will be central to the team’s performance, while new faces, including promising recruits, will be eager to make their mark.
Head coach Mike Neighbors is known for his up-tempo offensive style, which emphasizes three-point shooting and fast-paced play. The exhibition against Northeastern State, a Division II program from Oklahoma, will be an opportunity for Neighbors to test various lineups, assess the team’s defensive readiness, and fine-tune their offensive schemes. Exhibition games often provide younger players with significant playing time, allowing them to gain experience in a game setting.
For Northeastern State, this exhibition serves as a chance to compete against a top-tier SEC program, offering invaluable experience for their own upcoming season. While the Razorbacks will be heavily favored, these early matchups are critical for both teams in terms of preparation and development.
As the exhibition game approaches, excitement is building among Arkansas fans, who are eager to see their team in action and evaluate the potential of this year’s roster. With tough SEC competition ahead, the Razorbacks will use this exhibition as a springboard to what they hope will be a successful and memorable season. Hosting Northeastern State gives the team a chance to start strong and set the tone for what could be a breakout year for Arkansas women’s basketball.