LITTLE ROCK, AR.— The University of Arkansas at Little Rock and the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff are proud to announce the creation of the Central Arkansas Tip-Off Classic, an annual exhibition basketball event bringing together two University of Arkansas System schools to launch the college basketball season.

The inaugural doubleheader is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 17 at the Jack Stephens Center in Little Rock. The women's teams will tip off at 6 p.m., followed by the men's matchup at approximately 8 p.m. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online, through either school ticket office, or at the Jack Stephens Center box office on game day. For ticket questions, call the Little Rock Athletics Ticket Office at 501-916-3257 or the UAPB Athletics Ticket Office at 1-870-575-8601.

The Central Arkansas Tip-Off Classic is designed to be an annual showcase of Arkansas talent and pride, uniting fans from across the region in anticipation of the college basketball season.

"We are incredibly excited to launch the inaugural Central Arkansas Tip-Off Classic, a celebration of college basketball and the shared pride of two outstanding institutions within the University of Arkansas System," said Little Rock Director of Athletics Frank M. Cuervo. "This event represents more than just a game — it's a symbol of the spirit of cooperation and mutual respect between Little Rock and UAPB.

"Both universities are experiencing tremendous momentum, from remarkable achievements in the classroom and on the court to the amazing work being done by our students, faculty, and staff. We're proud to shine a spotlight on all the incredible things happening on our campuses and to bring our communities together for what promises to be an outstanding showcase of talent, unity, and school pride."

UAPB Vice Chancellor for Intercollegiate Athletics Chris Robinson echoed Cuervo's enthusiasm, noting the event's broader impact.

"It's great to see two UA System schools come together for an event like the Central Arkansas Tip-Off Classic," Robinson said. "This isn't just about the UAPB Golden Lions and Little Rock Trojans. It's about giving basketball fans across the state an opportunity to enjoy a high-quality in-state matchup right before the season tips off. Events like this bring excitement, build pride, and showcase the talent we have right here in Arkansas."

The two programs are separated by just 45 miles and share deep ties across the state. UAPB head coach Solomon Bozeman, a Magnolia native, played a pivotal role in Little Rock's 2011 NCAA Tournament run, hitting the game-winning three-pointer in the Sun Belt Championship against North Texas. Now leading the Golden Lions, Bozeman is returning to familiar territory.

"This game means a great deal to me both personally and professionally," Bozeman said. "Having played my college ball in Little Rock, I have tremendous respect for that program and the role it played in shaping who I am today. Anytime you get the chance to compete in front of your home-state crowd, it carries special meaning. This is a full-circle moment for me."

Little Rock head men's coach Darrell Walker knows all about the state's basketball culture after starring at the University of Arkansas, where he earned All-American honors. Walker played one season at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith — earning All-Conference accolades — before spending three seasons with the Razorbacks. The now Trojans head coach amassed 1,325 points (18th all-time), while ranking fourth in program history in steals (230) and sixth in free throws made (524).

"Having two in-state programs meet to start the season is a great thing," Walker said. "We know there is a lot of excitement surrounding both programs, and a lot of fans will be at the Jack Stephens Center to enjoy a night of basketball, highlighting the game in the state of Arkansas."
On the women's side, both head coaches have deep Arkansas roots.

Little Rock head coach Steve Wiedower grew up on a farm near Guy, Arkansas, and played at Greenbrier High School. He began his college career at Oklahoma City University before transferring to Arkansas State, where he earned All-Southland Conference honors as a senior. Wiedower began coaching at Morrilton Junior High School, later serving as both boys' and girls' varsity head coach at his alma mater. He joined Little Rock legend Joe Foley's staff in 2003 as a graduate manager, then as an assistant from 2004–09. After a successful stint as the head coach at Russellville High School (2009–15), Wiedower returned to Little Rock as Foley's top assistant for nine seasons before succeeding him as head coach in 2024.

UAPB head coach Erica Leak is regarded as one of the top high school players in Arkansas history. After starring at Palestine-Wheatley High School, she helped Louisiana Tech to four straight WAC championships and NCAA Tournament appearances, earning WAC Freshman of the Year honors. She was selected 19th overall in the 2005 WNBA Draft by the Washington Mystics. Leak later returned to east Arkansas, coaching at Forrest City and West Memphis, where she guided the Lady Blue Devils to the 2021 state championship game.

Wiedower and Leak first connected when Leak brought her high school teams to Little Rock basketball camps, building a mutual respect rooted in Arkansas basketball.

"This is going to be a special night for everyone, being able to shine the spotlight on two great schools and all of the basketball ties we have," Wiedower said. "Erica was a great player and coach, and I'm glad we got to know each other. I'm very excited about matching up against a program from the area to kick off the season."
Leak also emphasized the broader significance of the matchup.

"It's always special to compete in front of our home-state fans," Leak said. "This game is about more than basketball — it's about representing our community, celebrating the pride of both programs, and showcasing quality basketball here in Arkansas."