In a surprising turn of events, Arkansas defeated Kentucky 89-79 in February 2025, marking a significant recovery for the Razorbacks after a challenging 1-6 start in SEC play.

This game was particularly notable as it was John Calipari's first visit back to Arkansas since leaving Kentucky, where he faced a chorus of boos from the home crowd.

Calipari, who coached Kentucky from 2009 to 2024, will not have a return game at Rupp Arena, further emphasizing the rivalry's intensity.

Under the new leadership of coach Mark Pope, Kentucky concluded the 2024-25 season with a respectable 24-12 record and reached the Sweet 16 for the first time since 2019.

Meanwhile, Calipari's first season at Arkansas saw the team achieve an 8-10 SEC record and also reach the Sweet 16, where they narrowly lost to Texas Tech.

Looking ahead, Kentucky is ranked No. 5 in the transfer portal for the upcoming season, thanks in part to the addition of five-star recruit Jayden Quaintance.

Arkansas is not far behind, ranked No. 6 in the 2025 recruiting rankings, having secured five-star guards Darius Acuff Jr. and Meleek Thomas, along with transfer Nick Pringle from South Carolina.

Both teams are poised for a competitive 2025-26 season, with Kentucky and Arkansas being viewed as top contenders for the national title according to betting odds.

In the upcoming SEC season, Kentucky and Arkansas will face off only once, with the game scheduled at Bud Walton Arena in Fayetteville.

In the upset victory over Kentucky, former Wildcat Adou Thiero led Arkansas with an impressive 21 points, showcasing his growth since leaving Kentucky.