The “Battle Line Rivalry” moves to the hardwood this afternoon as the No. 20 Arkansas Razorbacks (19-7, 9-4 SEC) host the Missouri Tigers (18-8, 8-5 SEC) at Bud Walton Arena. Tip-off is scheduled for 4:00 p.m. ET on Saturday, February 21, 2026.
This matchup carries significant postseason implications for both programs. Arkansas enters the contest looking to solidify its standing near the top of the SEC leaderboard, while Missouri aims to bolster its NCAA Tournament resume following a recent victory over a top-20 opponent. The Razorbacks have historically dominated this series on the court, leading the all-time matchup 36-28 and winning nine of the last 12 meetings.
Game Preview and Betting Odds
Arkansas opens as a home favorite, a position they have handled well this season. According to recent betting data, the Razorbacks have been particularly strong against the spread when favored by double digits at home. However, Missouri has proven resilient in the first half of games, posting a 4-2 record against the first-half line in recent matchups against Arkansas.
- Date: Saturday, February 21, 2026
- Time: 4:00 p.m. ET / 3:00 p.m. CT
- Location: Bud Walton Arena, Fayetteville, AR
- TV/Streaming: SEC Network / ESPN+
Historical Context: The Battle Line Rivalry
While the rivalry is often highlighted by its football history—where Missouri holds a commanding 13-4 lead and a 10-2 record since joining the SEC—the basketball series has been more competitive. Arkansas has maintained the upper hand in Fayetteville, but the Tigers have shown they can pull off upsets when the “Border War” intensity peaks.
Missouri’s head record at home against Arkansas is a stout 18-13, but they have struggled on the road, winning only 10 of 31 games played in Fayetteville. Today’s game marks the first of two regular-season meetings between the rivals for the 2025-26 season.
Key Matchups to Watch
The battle in the paint will be critical. Arkansas’ defense has been a hallmark of their top-20 ranking, but Missouri’s offense has found a rhythm in February. Analysts suggest that Missouri’s ability to cover the 10.5-point spread will depend on their perimeter shooting and ability to limit second-chance points for the Razorbacks.
For Arkansas, maintaining their home-court advantage is paramount. With a 19-7 record, a win today would likely keep them within the top four of the SEC standings, securing a crucial double-bye for the upcoming conference tournament.
What’s at Stake
For the Tigers, this is a “quadrant one” opportunity. Currently sitting at 8-5 in conference play, a road win against a ranked Arkansas team would almost certainly lock in their spot for Selection Sunday. For the Razorbacks, it is about momentum; with only a few games remaining in the regular season, protecting home court is essential for seeding in both the SEC and NCAA tournaments.