Quotes of Note: Auburn basketball returns home to host Arkansas

After a massive win in Tuscaloosa last weekend against No. 2 Alabama (who has since dropped to No. 4) the Tigers will return home to Neville Arena to host Arkansas. It will be John Calipari’s first trip to the Plains as the Razorbacks’ head coach and it will be the Tigers’ only matchup against Arkansas in the regular season.

As previously mentioned, the Tigers are coming off a big win over Alabama after a dominant road win over Vanderbilt. Auburn basketball is still ranked No. 1 in the AP Poll and holds a 23-2 overall record and 10-1 record in conference play.

The Arkansas Razorbacks are in the bottom half of the SEC and are unranked. They have a 15-10 overall record and a 4-8 record in conference play, though some of their conference wins have been surprising (see: Coach Cal’s return to Rupp Arena). The Razorbacks would love to upset the Tigers on their own turf.

Here is what head coach Bruce Pearl had to say about tonight’s matchup.

Pearl on facing the Razorbacks, per Auburn Undercover:

“This is a very talented team that’s playing well right now and, obviously, needs something a little more to make sure they’re in the Big Dance. So our guys understand that Arkansas understands the prize that is on these 40 minutes and what a win for them would do. Just basically take them from being where they are, last four in or first four out, and put them in the tournament. Obviously, a lot on the line. And we’re playing to try to be in position to win a championship.”

Pearl on the importance of the depth on his team, per Auburn Undercover:

“Well, I think it’s important. And I think, you know, our bench play is really important. So, whether or not Tahaad comes off the bench every game — and he and Chaney are certainly candidates for Sixth Man of the Year — and Chaney comes in, and we don’t drop off when either Johni or Dylan come out… and whether it’s Chris Moore or whoever it is, the guys are ready. There has been really good balance.”

Pearl on going up against 7-foot-2 sophomore forward Zvonimir Ivisic, per AL.com:

“He’s very unique. He is their best 3-point shooter, both in makes and percentage. Now that he’s starting, Cal’s doing a lot of things to get him clean looks. If he can see it, he can make it. The other thing, too, is that you can be up on him — but, since he’s 7-foot-2, if he gets that ball up in his carriage and you press up on him, he’s still getting a clean look. So, yeah, it’s a real, real weapon.”

Tipoff between the Tigers and the Razorbacks is set for 8:00 p.m. in Neville Arena.