The 2025 CBS Sports Thanksgiving Classic will feature a meeting between Arkansas and Duke at the United Center in Chicago, as announced by CBS on Thursday. This will mark only the sixth encounter between these historic programs, with just three regular-season matchups previously.

Both teams are expected to be top contenders in college basketball next season. Duke will be adjusting to life after Cooper Flagg, a likely No. 1 pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, while Arkansas seeks improvement in Year 2 under coach John Calipari, following a mixed first season.

“I’m really excited to return to Chicago with our team,” said Duke head coach Jon Scheyer. “This opportunity to play in the spotlight during Thanksgiving night on national television is a fantastic platform for Duke Basketball against a formidable opponent.”

The Razorbacks lead the series 3-2, recently winning 80-75 in a meeting on November 29, 2023, at Bud Walton Arena. Historically, Arkansas also triumphed over Duke in the 1994 national championship.

Arkansas head coach John Calipari expressed enthusiasm for the matchup, viewing it as another chance to highlight the growth of his team against a respected opponent.

CBS aired a Thanksgiving Day college basketball game this past season, which helped set the stage for this classic showdown. The exciting clash will kick off at 8 p.m. ET, broadcasted on CBS and Paramount+.

2025-26 Duke Outlook

Duke’s recruiting class for 2025 ranks No. 1 and includes standout twins Cameron and Cayden Boozer, along with four of the top 25 players in college basketball. Coach Jon Scheyer aims for a strong NCAA Tournament showing for Duke after a year of transition.

2025-26 Arkansas Outlook

On the other hand, Arkansas boasts a No. 4 recruiting class led by five-star prospects Darius Acuff Jr. and Meleek Thomas. The Razorbacks’ strong returning core, led by top scorer Adou Thiero, is anticipated to drive the team forward as they embrace new talent and strategic transfers.