Razorbacks mentioned in pair of polls

FAYETTEVILLE – Tom Collen and the University of Arkansas women’s basketball team earned votes in a pair of collegiate polls announced today.

Collen and the Razorbacks are 9-0 this year and are picking up votes in both the ESPN/USA TODAY Coaches Poll and the AP Top 25. It is the first time this season the Razorbacks are mentioned in either poll.

Arkansas’ 9-0 start is the second-best in program history following only the 15-0 start Arkansas had under Collin in his first season in 2007-08.

"It’s nice to be recognized in the polls," said Collen, "especially for our fans and players. It’s an indication of success and that people around the country are starting to notice our program.

"Being undefeated at this point in the season is a nice accomplishment but I think we all know that preparing for the SEC schedule is the purpose of the preseason," he added.

Arkansas picked up 25 points in the ESPN/USA TODAY Coaches Poll and would rank No. 29th overall. They are one of five Southeastern Conference teams mentioned in this list.

The Razorbacks are getting seven votes in the AP Top 25 this week as well. That vote total would rank Arkansas No. 30 overall. There are six SEC teams mentioned on the AP list.

The Razorback women are idle this week while focusing on final exams. Arkansas returns to the court Dec. 16, hosting Oral Roberts in one of two non-conference games before the holiday.

"We have three more games to prepare before we begin SEC play," Collen said. "One of the benefits of winning is gaining confidence and momentum. This team and this program are headed in the right direction."