Today's post is written by Assistant Coach Marcus Moeller:
When I was 8 years old, the likes of Todd Day, Oliver Miller, and Corliss Williamson won a National Title for the University of Arkansas. Over the years I have seen so many Arkansas greats play. I also had the joy of watching childhood friend and teammate Steven Hill play his collegiate career in that building. I distinctly remember sitting courtside when Arkansas knocked off LSU and their deadly tandem of Glen "big baby" Davis and Tyrus Thomas. For all of the memories I have of watching games at Bud Walton Arena, I am sure that none will compare to getting to coach in it.
Wednesday we travel to Fayetteville, AR to take on the Arkansas LadyBacks in an exhibition game. Like many things in northwest Arkansas, the name of the arena bears the name of the Walton family. The Bud Walton Arena has hosted many basketball games that stick out in my mind. Growing up in Joplin, Bud Walton Arena became a familiar place to me and my friends as we took in many Razorbacks games. The gorgeous facility definitely lives up to its nickname, "The Basketball Palace of Mid-America".
As a team, we are very excited for the opportunity to play such a quality opponent. The SEC rivals the Big 12 for the best women's basketball conference in the country. We have worked extremely hard and we are ready for the challenge that awaits. 2 girls on our team are probably a little more excited than the rest. Michelle Hedgecock and Shatara Stone will be returning to their home state to play this game! Michelle from North Little Rock, AR and Shatara from Fort Smith have both expressed a naturaul excitement for the game.
This isn't the first time we have had the opportunity to play Arkansas. 3 years ago we played at Bud Walton Walton Arena and lost a very hard fought game by 4! Our goal is plain and simple for this game, go down and compete as hard as we can on EVERY SINGLE possession. We are looking forward to roaring with Lion Pride!! The short drive from Joplin will be a fun one...are you going to join us??
Until next time...It's a GREAT day to be a LION
Marcus Moeller
Assistant Coach
