Central Arkansas (My Nemi-nemesis)
After a scare on Tuesday night, the Jayhawks look to right the ship a bit in Allen Fieldhouse on Thursday when it takes on Central Arkansas. The lone bright spot from the Memphis game was Cole Aldrich. With his 18 points and 11 rebounds, Aldrich led the Jayhawks to a two point victory versus a very game Memphis squad. Look for KU to pound the ball inside early against Central Arkansas and hopefully open up some easier looks for wings Xavier Henry and Tyshawn Taylor as well as point guard Sherron Collins, who all struggled against the Tigers.
Location: Conway, Arkansas is a suburb of Little Rock, and based on Wikipedia my research, is the eighth most populous city in Arkansas. Conway is known as “the city of colleges” because of its three post-secondary institutions. However, after looking at the town’s website, they are very proud of the fact that Conway is also a frequent stop over for travelers on their way to Branson, MO. (Idea for a new slogan) On Your Way To Branson To Watch Yacov Smirnoff? Really? When Your Expectations Are Low, Try Conway, AR!
Head Coach: Rand Chappell is in his seventh season as the Bears head coach. Although he is probably best known as the guy who looks like the guy who played Drew Carey’s brother, he is closing in on his 300th victory as a head coach. Other than looking like the guy who looks like the guy who played Drew Carey’s brother, Kansans may recognize Chappell from his days of coaching at Labette Community College in Parsons, KS, although probably not.
Key Players: Not sure, let’s talk about Yacov Smirnoff some more. Smirnoff has been a fixture in Branson, MO since 1993. A quick check of Ticket Master tells me that people have been paying $35.00 to see Yacov Smirnoff for over 16 years. Wow, What A Country! This guy is also a professor at two Universities, a featured columnist, and an accomplished artist.
Notable Alumni: Scottie Pippen in by far the most recognizable name to come out of Central Arkansas University. However, the most famous dropout would have to be “American Idol”, season 8 winner, Kris Allen. After failed attempts at college and shoe-sales(ery), the 24 year old went on to capture the hearts of teenage girls everywhere in 2009.
Prediction: KU plays the bad guy in this one, ala Simon Cowell, and sends more than one of the Central Arkansas players into shoe-salesmanship with a great story to tell the kids one day. KU 94-47.
