Central Arkansas Tip-Off Classic Draws Over 3,000 Fans in Successful Debut
Little Rock, Ark. – The inaugural Central Arkansas Tip-Off Classic, a doubleheader featuring Little Rock and Arkansas-Pine Bluff, drew a crowd of 3,161 to the Jack Stephens Center yesterday evening, signaling strong local enthusiasm for college basketball.
The event showcased both men’s and women’s teams from the two Arkansas universities, with the Little Rock women securing a narrow 52-50 victory, while the UAPB men prevailed 77-69. The night included performances by both schools’ dance teams and the Trojan pep band, as well as a tribute to the Little Rock Trojans’ 2010-11 NCAA Tournament team, led then by star player Solomon Bozeman, who now serves as head coach at UAPB. Graduate student Jordan Holman led the Trojans women with a clutch performance, including a key three-pointer and late free throws.
Tuongthach Gatkek led Little Rock’s men with 18 points and six rebounds, but a strong second-half push wasn’t enough to overcome a double-digit halftime deficit. This event is particularly significant as it aims to boost regional interest and attendance in collegiate basketball, a sport facing increasing competition for viewership. Fans can find more information about college basketball schedules and results at NCAA.com.
Little Rock’s men will next host Arkansas Tech in an exhibition game on October 28 at 7 p.m., while the women’s team begins its regular season on November 3 at 7 p.m. against Central Baptist College. Tickets and season packages are available online or through the Trojan Ticket Office.
