Collen Razorbacks host exhibition

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The University of Arkansas women’s basketball team hosts its only exhibition game Wednesday, welcoming Northeastern State to Bud Walton Arena for a 7 p.m. tip. Arkansas returns nine players from last year’s 18-14 team that reached the third round of the WNIT. Head coach Tom Collen and his staff have added a talented group of newcomers and are excited about getting the season underway. "We’re excited about getting out there and playing against someone else," Collen said. "This team has been working really hard in practice and we’re at that point where we need to see what we can do against someone else." The Razorbacks are looking forward to playing a lot of players in this exhibition. That desire is aided by a couple of injuries that will limit court time for a few players. Sophomore guard and All-Southeastern Conference Freshman Team selection Lyndsay Harris and junior Brittany Richardson will both likely sit out with minor injuries. "Our lineup may be scrambled a bit for this game but I’m looking forward to seeing what our players can do," Collen said. "It’s unfortunate that a few people might not play but this is an opportunity for other players to step up." The Razorbacks take on a talented RiverHawk team that is picked third in the Lone Star Conference this year. NSU was 16-12 a year ago and returns four starters this season. Arkansas returns a good bit of talent as well. Senior Charity Ford and sophomore C’eira Ricketts along with Harris, earned all-conference honors a year ago. In addition, the Razorbacks are deeper this season in the post position, something Collen is looking forward to. "We have more options this season," Collen said. "We are deeper and more talented than in recent years and we have the ability to move some players around." In addition to the returners, Collen is anxious to get a look at his newcomers. Freshman Sarah Watkins and junior college transfer Skye Rees are two players Collen thinks fans will enjoy. "Sarah is going to be a great player for us," he said. "She is very talented and picks things up quickly. Skye will stretch the defense with her ability to shoot the three. We really need all of our young players to be impactful for us this year." The game also invites fans to "
Bring a Guest" to the game. Buy one full price adult ticket and recieve a second adult ticket free. Arkansas returns to the court for the season opener Nov. 15 against Alcorn State in Hot Springs, Ark. The Razorbacks travel to Southern Methodist Nov. 18 and begin the home regular season against East Tennessee State Nov. 22. For more information about Razorback women’s basketball log on to ArkansasRazorbacks.com.