A nearly two-week hiatus will finally come to an end on Tuesday night, when the Florida Gators (10-5, 6-4 SEC) take action against the Arkansas Razorbacks (16-5, 8-4 SEC) in Fayetteville . Both schools are fighting for their lives in the tournament as the month of March rapidly approaches.
The two programs have met 38 times since their first meeting in 1992, which Florida lost 75-62. The defeat started a skid of five games lost to the ‘Backs, which prevented UF from winning its first victory in the series until a coincident 75-62 home win in 1997. Arkansas won seven of the first nine games before Florida turns the tables on them.
Overall, UF holds a 26-12 lead of all time, having won 11 of the last 12 clashes and 19 of the last 22. Suffice to say that Florida has taken firm control of this series, including its resounding victory in the last game almost a year ago, in which they achieved a 73-59 victory.
But that is not all! Here’s a look at three more intriguing numbers heading to Tuesday night’s departure.
Everything you need to know to follow Florida basketball in Arkansas
Florida men’s basketball betting odds in Arkansas, by BetMGM
What Florida needs to do to return to action in Arkansas
6.3
Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports
Florida is considered the best kick-blocking team in the country, with 6.3 per game. The Gators are on their way to a record for the program in this category (5.3, 2005-06), having averaged just over five blocks per game previously.
200
Ben Queen-USA TODAY Sports
Noah Locke is three points from becoming the eighth Gator to make 200 in his career. Sitting in 197, Locke is behind Kenyan Weaks in 9th place on Florida’s all-time list.
8
Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Eight Florida wins against Arkansas under Mike White for the majority against any opponent during his term (Georgia).