Memphis, Arkansas Play Charity Basketball Game at FedExForum

Arkansas coach John Calipari will return to Memphis for the Hoops For St. Jude Tip Off Classic on October 27 at the FedEx Forum, where he previously coached the Memphis Tigers from 2000 to 2009. The charity exhibition game aims to raise funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, with all ticket sales benefiting the hospital. Memphis coach Penny Hardaway and Calipari emphasized the event's focus beyond basketball, highlighting its philanthropic mission and the legacy of Calipari's tenure at Memphis. Despite some lingering mixed feelings among Memphis fans about Calipari's departure to Kentucky in 2009, the press conference showcased a friendly relationship between the two coaches, with former Memphis players present and honored. The event also sparked hope for a potential renewal of the rivalry between the Arkansas and Memphis basketball programs. Both coaches and the University of Memphis athletic director expressed optimism about the positive impact of the game on the city and community.