LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) – UK men’s basketball has two big matchups this week, and they’re hoping to get back on the winner’s board.

First up is their game against Tennessee on Tuesday night, and then a highly anticipated game Saturday against Arkansas.

We talked with UK students about which game they preferred to win. We found out there is, in fact, a preference.

The obvious answer is that UK fans want them to win both games, but if they had to pick just one, defeating Arkansas and former head coach John Calipari is the overwhelming choice.

“Mark Pope beating Coach Calipari, I think that’s going to make headlines,” said student Teague Howell.

Student Jack Schall said, “It’s probably going to be one of the biggest college basketball games in the past couple years.”

This week, the talk around the University of Kentucky’s campus centers around UK’s match-up against Arkansas as John Calipari steps back into Rupp as the opposition.

“A lot of people talking about how they want to win the game and how excited they are to see it,” said student Abby Alex. “i think it’s definitely going to be an interestng game to watch.”

However, before saturday, UK has a chance to get off to a good start by beating Tennessee in Knoxville Tuesday. Because of the bye week, it’s been more than two weeks since they picked up a win.

“The game on Saturday, obviously, has more meaning behind it, but both games are equally as important,” Howell said.

Kentucky beat the Vols last year, but this rivalry game will be a tough battle to win. UK students say this is what Kentucky basketball is all about.

“Just a tradition of excellence,” Howell said. “They kind of have that pedigree of winning a lot of national championships. Obviously, the NBA talent as well, but, yeah, there’s a big hype around this weekend’s game and the game today, too.”

Students say it was a mad dash for everyone to get their hands on tickets to see the action in person.

“The Calipari teams were pretty good, but him leaving upset a lot of fans, so I think a lot of people are excited to have him back, and maybe there will be a little bit of revenge,” said Schall.

The stakes are certainly high with fans saying they’d be disappointed if UK doesn’t win on their home court.

“It would be embarrassing,” said Schall. “It would definitely be embarrassing.”

Tipoff against Tennessee is Tuesday at 7 p.m. Saturday’s match-up against Arkansas is at 9 p.m. at Rupp Arena.

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