College basketball is a Big Event type of sport, and we have more than a few on tap for today.

First and foremost, we have the John Calipari Game in Lexington. Of course, some (especially Cal himself) might suggest that every game in Rupp Arena over the last 14 years was the John Calipari Game. But this time it really deserves that title as Cal brings his Arkansas Razorbacks back to the place he once called home. There’s been a lot of talk about the reception Cal will get – I think it should and will be very positive – but the more pressing issue he faces is that his team kinda stinks. The Razorbacks are 1-6 in the SEC (12-8 overall) and have a very long, steep climb to get to the NCAA Tournament. A win today would help, obviously, but whatever happens, it will be great theater.

Duke-North Carolina is always a Big Event, and I contend that remains true even though the Tar Heels have been disappointing this season. Duke is a 13 1/2-point favorite, which makes sense except that nothing in this rivalry ever makes sense. That might tip you off as to how I am picking this game. I’ve made four others against the spread, as I do every Saturday.

There are plenty of other terrific games today as well: Florida-Tennessee, Gonzaga-Saint Mary’s, New Mexico-Utah State. I’ll be spending all day in the FOX studios watching and yapping about it all. It’s a great time of year to be a college basketball fan – and this is a great place to follow all the action. So thanks as always for your support of HQ and enjoy all the games. –Seth

Kentucky Fans Should Give John Calipari the Ovation He Deserves

By Seth Davis

It’s always a big deal when longtime SEC rivals Kentucky and Arkansas square off, but this season it is a Really Big Deal. That’s because it will mark John Calipari’s first time returning to Rupp Arena since he bolted for Fayetteville last April. “Let me just say this, there will be some emotions walking into Rupp Arena,” Calipari said. “In my time, I don’t remember them ever cheering an opposing coach. I’m fine. The fans are terrific. They were terrific during our run. They’re engaged and my guess is they’re going to be really engaged on Saturday.

”Asked if he thought the fans might boo him, Calipari replied, “There may be some boos. There may be a lot of boos. That doesn’t change anything for me. It doesn’t change the history. It doesn’t change my history.”

Frankly, I would be surprised if there were a lot of boos. Personally, I don’t think there should any boos.

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John Fanta is Popping Off

The 29-year-old broadcaster is relatable, engaging and everywhere. He calls games for FOX, NBC and CBS Sports Network, writes columns for foxsports.com, does video breakdowns and interviews for the Big East, hosts podcasts for The Field of 68 and is constantly engaging with his followers across social media.

Between the Lines

🏀 Texas freshman guard Tre Johnson — a former McDonald's All-American and five star recruit — has a generations-deep connection to Longhorns coach Rodney Terry. Krysten Peek catches up with the likely NBA lottery pick.

🏀 Having debuted about 2 months ago, over Thanksgiving week 2024, the Players Era Festival is now, officially, the best college hoops tournment other than the Tournament. Already commited to play in November 2025 are Alabama, Auburn, Gonzaga, Houston, Iowa State, Kansas, Michigan, Oregon, St. John’s and Syracuse, to name a few.

North Carolina @ No. 2 Duke: Yes, there are more competitive games on today's schedule, as well as Calipari's dramatic return to Lexington. But it's Duke-UNC, and this is our first chance to watch freshman sensation and projected No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg make his mark on the legendary rivalry. In January, Flagg averaged 25.4 points, 7.6 rebounds and 4.9 assists. Plus, you know the atmosphere at Cameron Indoor is going to be incredible. 6:30 p.m. ET on ESPN.