The stage is set for an electrifying NCAA Super Regional matchup as No. 5 Arkansas (46-13) prepares to host No. 14 Tennessee (46-17) in a best-of-three series at Baum-Walker Stadium, with the winner punching their ticket to the College World Series in Omaha.
The series, scheduled for June 7-9, brings together two of college baseball’s best programs, both fresh off dominant regional performances. Arkansas swept through their regional without a loss, while Tennessee continued their postseason excellence by defeating Wake Forest 11-5 to advance to their fifth consecutive Super Regional.
The matchup features an intriguing subplot between the coaches.
Tennessee’s Tony Vitello, who served as an assistant under Arkansas’s Dave Van Horn, has transformed the Volunteers program into a national powerhouse.
“We know what we’re getting into with Tennessee,” Van Horn said during Monday’s press conference. “They’re playing their best baseball at the right time, and Tony has them prepared for every situation. It’s going to be a battle.”
Baum-Walker Stadium, renowned for its electric atmosphere, is expected to be at full capacity. The venue has been a fortress for the Razorbacks, who consistently rank among college baseball’s attendance leaders.
The stadium’s single-game attendance record of 11,103 could be challenged during this high-stakes series.
Both teams feature powerful offenses and deep pitching staffs.
The Volunteers have shown remarkable resilience in the postseason, extending their NCAA regional winning streak to 14 games.
Meanwhile, Arkansas has dominated at home, leveraging their passionate fan base and the intimidating environment of Baum-Walker Stadium.
The series opener is set for Saturday at 4 p.m. on ESPN, followed by a Sunday afternoon clash at 2 p.m.
If necessary, the decisive third game will be played Monday, with the time to be determined.
Tickets are expected to be in high demand, with a limited quantity of Hog Pen tickets available to the general public and UA students starting Tuesday morning.
Tennessee’s path to Fayetteville included impressive victories over Cincinnati and Wake Forest in the Knoxville Regional.
The Volunteers’ offense has been clicking at the right time, averaging over eight runs per game in regional play.
Their pitching staff has shown depth and resilience, particularly in high-pressure situations.
Arkansas, meanwhile, showcased their championship potential by dominating their regional opponents.
The Razorbacks’ combination of power hitting and strategic small ball has kept opponents off balance, while their pitching staff has consistently delivered quality starts and reliable relief appearances.
The winner of this Super Regional will advance to the College World Series in Omaha, where both programs have rich histories.
Arkansas is seeking their ninth CWS appearance under Van Horn, while Tennessee aims to continue their remarkable postseason run under Vitello.
This series represents more than just a Super Regional matchup — it’s a showcase of SEC baseball excellence, featuring two programs that have helped establish the conference’s dominance in college baseball.
With both teams playing their best baseball of the season and a trip to Omaha on the line, fans can expect an unforgettable weekend of collegiate baseball at its finest.
For those unable to secure tickets, both games will be broadcast nationally on ESPN, bringing the intensity and atmosphere of Baum-Walker Stadium to baseball fans across the country.
As these SEC powerhouses prepare to clash, the road to Omaha runs through Fayetteville, promising three days of compelling baseball that will be remembered for years to come.
