Razorbacks Face Winthrop: Keys to Victory

Razorbacks Host Winthrop in Non-Conference Clash

The Arkansas Razorbacks (3-1) welcome the Winthrop Eagles (2-2 to Bud Walton Arena on Tuesday night in a crucial non-conference matchup. With the Razorbacks ranked No. 21 in the AP Top 25 and seeking momentum before SEC play, this game presents both challenges and opportunities for John Calipari's squad.

Matchup Essentials

When: Tuesday, November 19, 2025 at 7:00 PM CT
Where: Bud Walton Arena (Fayetteville)
Records: Arkansas 3-1, Winthrop 2-2

Coaching Contrast

Arkansas's John Calipari brings unparalleled experience with an 880-278 career record and 25-15 mark at Arkansas. Winthrop's Mark Prosser, meanwhile, has built a solid 80-54 record with the Eagles in his fifth season. This clash of styles – Calipari's NBA pedigree against Prosser's mid-major grind – should create fascinating strategic battles.

Series History

Arkansas holds a 1-0 advantage in the all-time series, dominating the previous meeting 72-49 back in 2004 at the Paradise Jam. The Razorbacks will look to extend this commanding start against the Eagles.

How to Watch & Listen

The game airs on SEC Network+ (WatchESPN/ESPN app) with Brett Dolan and Manuale Watkins on the call. Radio coverage comes via Razorback Sports Network through Chuck Barrett and Matt Zimmerman on affiliates and the Varsity Network app. Note that blackouts may apply.

Betting Analysis

Arkansas enters as a 19.5-point favorite per FanDuel, reflecting their No. 21 AP ranking and No. 35 KenPom rating. Winthrop sits at No. 131 in KenPom's rankings, suggesting the Razorbacks' spread is justified. However, Winthrop's 81-74 season-opening win over Queens – a future Arkansas opponent – hints at potential upset capability.

Key Storylines

Winthrop's Engine: Guards Daylen Berry and Logan Duncomb control roughly 25% of possessions each. Their ball-handling will test Arkansas's defensive pressure.
Brazile's Return: Forward Trevon Brazill missed the Central Arkansas game with back spasms but returned with 15 points and 7 rebounds against Samford. His conditioning could impact minutes against Winthrop's physical style.
Common Ground: Winthrop's win over Queens provides both teams with scouting intel before their December 16 meeting.

Razorbacks execute pregame drills at Bud Walton Arena - Image from https://duckduckgo.com/?origin=funnel_home_website&t=h_&q=Arkansas+Razorbacks+basketball+pregame+warmups+Bud+alton+Arena&ia=images&iax=images&iai=https%3A%2F%2Fstatic.wixstatic.com%2Fmedia%2Fd50ee7_e2b574508aa643e19ea95da3dadcf08c%7Emv2.jpeg%2Fv1%2Ffill%2Fw_1000%2Ch_563%2Cal_c%2Cq_85%2Cusm_0.66_1.00_0.01%2Fd50ee7_e2b574508aa643e19ea95da3dadcf08c%7Emv2.jpeg

Image: Arkansas Razorbacks huddle during pre-game warmups at Bud Walton Arena.

What to Expect

Arkansas should control tempo with superior athleticism and size, but Winthrop's veteran backcourt could exploit transition opportunities if Razorback turnovers mount. Expect Calipari to emphasize defensive intensity after allowing 74 points to Samford. Winthrop will need to shoot above their 30% 3-point average to stay within striking distance.

Head coach John Calipari directs his team during a home game - Image from https://www.si.com/college/arkansas/football/can-razorbacks-find-their-own-calipari-in-football-coaching-search

Image: John Calipari coaching from the bench during a Razorback home game.

Conclusion

While the line suggests a comfortable Razorback victory, Winthrop's experience and recent win over Queens warn against complacency. Arkansas must maintain focus to build momentum for SEC play. Tip-off is set for 7 PM CT at Bud Walton Arena – a night where every possession could impact the Razorbacks' NCAA Tournament seeding.