Thanksgiving Showdown: Arkansas vs. Illinois

History of the Rivalry

The history between Arkansas and Illinois dates back, with this being their seventh encounter. Illinois has dominated the series, leading 5-1. However, Arkansas' lone win came in the first round of the NCAA Tournament in 2023, adding an extra layer of significance to this matchup. The teams have faced off in various settings over the years, and this Thanksgiving Day showdown is sure to be a memorable one.

Each program brings its own strengths and styles to the court. Arkansas, with their new coaching staff, has shown promise in their early season performances. Illinois, on the other hand, has been on a winning streak and is looking to continue their dominance. The history between these two teams adds an extra dimension to the game, making it a must-watch event for basketball fans.

Current Season Form

Arkansas, under the guidance of John Calipari, has started the season on a positive note. Their 5-1 record shows their ability to compete at a high level. The team has shown great chemistry and has been able to adapt to different opponents. They will be looking to build on this success and make a statement on Thanksgiving Day.

Illinois, after a slow start, has found their rhythm in recent games. Their 92-34 win over Little Rock was a dominant display of their offensive firepower. The team has been led by some key players who have stepped up in crucial moments. With their recent wins, Illinois is confident going into this matchup and will be looking to extend their winning streak.

How to Watch

Basketball fans can catch all the action as Arkansas takes on Illinois live at 4 p.m. ET on CBS. The game will also be streamed live on CBSSports.com, the CBS Sports App, and Paramount+ with Showtime. This provides fans with multiple options to enjoy the game and stay updated with the live updates, analysis, and highlights from the game.

Whether you're watching at home or on the go, make sure to keep it locked here for all the live coverage. The Thanksgiving Day showdown between Arkansas and Illinois is sure to be a thrilling event that basketball fans won't want to miss.