Get ready for a thrilling basketball story that will have you on the edge of your seat!
The Central Arkansas Tip-Off Classic: A Night to Remember
In a highly anticipated debut, the Central Arkansas Tip-Off Classic delivered an unforgettable evening of basketball action, drawing an impressive crowd of 3,161 fans to the Jack Stephens Center. This collaborative effort between Little Rock and Arkansas-Pine Bluff programs was a resounding success, igniting the start of the basketball season with an electric atmosphere.
The doubleheader exhibition featured a unique blend of in-state rivalry and camaraderie, with both schools' dance teams and pep bands putting on an entertaining show. But the highlight of the night was undoubtedly the tribute to the 2010-11 NCAA Tournament team, led by the legendary Solomon Bozeman, now the head coach at UAPB.
And here's where it gets interesting...
The women's game kicked off the evening with a nail-biting finish. Little Rock's graduate student Jordan Holman, a true clutch performer, sank a crucial three-pointer with just over five minutes left, giving her team a slim lead. But the Golden Lions fought back, pulling within one point with two minutes remaining. It was then that Brenna Burk, a freshman guard, showcased her court awareness and determination. She chased down a tipped ball, raced ahead, drew a foul, and calmly sank the free throw to seal the victory for the Trojans, 52-50.
In the men's matchup, Tuongthach Gatkek, a senior forward, led Little Rock with an impressive 18 points and six rebounds. Cameron Wallace and Khasen Robinson also contributed with 14 and 11 points, respectively. The Trojans mounted a strong comeback in the second half, but ultimately fell short, with the Golden Lions claiming a 77-69 win.
This inaugural event has set the bar high for future Tip-Off Classics, with its success ensuring its place as an annual must-attend fixture in the region's basketball calendar.
And this is the part most people miss...
The impact of this event extends beyond the court. It brings together communities, fosters rivalries, and creates lasting memories. The players, with their unique stories and backgrounds, inspire and entertain us.
So, as we look forward to more thrilling basketball action, let's not forget the impact these athletes have on and off the court.
Little Rock men's team will host Arkansas Tech on October 28, while the women's team opens their regular season on November 3 against Central Baptist College. The men's regular season kicks off the following night against Arkansas Baptist College.
Mark your calendars, basketball fans!
🎟️ Tickets and Season Packages:
For more information and to secure your spot at these exciting games, visit lrtrojans.com or call the Trojan Ticket Office at 501-916-3257.
Players to Watch:
- Jordan Holman: Senior, 5'10
