Last week Arkansas lost to Mississippi 83-80 in the SEC tourney but still earned an at-large bid to this week’s NCAA tournament. The Razorbacks started 0-5 in conference play but are now heading back in the NCAA tourney for the 4th time in the past 5 years. Yesterday HoopsHD’s Jon Teitel got to speak with Arkansas cheerleader Kayleigh Shortt about having a new basketball coach and making the NCAA tourney.
You are from Edmond, OK: what made you choose Arkansas? I chose the University of Arkansas because of the overall atmosphere at the school. Not only does it have a strong community, but also has a highly-engaged fanbase that makes any Razorback sporting event unforgettable.
You are majoring in Accounting: how did you choose that subject? I chose Accounting through my love of business/numbers/people. I have always been interested in the subject, and thanks to the Sam Walton College of Business, I have had an amazing opportunity to pursue my degree.
You are a sophomore: do you have a post-graduation plan yet? My plan is to get my Masters of Accountancy and then pass my CPA exam in order to become a certified public accountant.
Your basketball team has a new coach this season: what is it like to have John Calipari as the new sheriff in town? Having John Calipari as our head coach has started a new chapter for the Razorback legacy. He has brought new talent, energy, and joy into the University’s traditional gameday. I see Coach Cal as a very respectful and humble coach.
What has been the highlight of the season so far: starting 11-2, Senior Night, other? The highlight of the season has been watching our team come back after starting 0-5 in our conference. Watching the Razorbacks being beaten into the ground and almost losing any chance of making it into the NCAA tournament, yet persevering and showing our worth, has been truly inspiring.
The Razorbacks lost to Mississippi in the SEC tourney but still earned an at-large bid to the NCAA tourney: how exciting was it to hear your team’s name called on Selection Sunday? Hearing our team’s name called on Selection Sunday was a feeling I will never forget: it was exhilarating! It has been my dream to be able to cheer on the Razorbacks during March Madness. I would be lying if I said that I have not shed a few tears at this amazing opportunity: I have been incredibly blessed.
You were 1 of a record 14 SEC teams to make the tourney: what is it like to be part of the greatest conference in the history of the sport? It has been competitive being a part of the SEC. We are constantly on our toes for the other giants who could beat us. That is what makes the SEC the SEC: nothing beats it!
How does your school decide who gets to go to the NCAA tourney, and what will it mean to you to see your group doing its thing in front of a national TV audience? We decide who goes to the NCAA tournament based on age, grades, community service, and upholding Razorback Cheerleading values.
Does your squad have anything extra-special planned for next week? We will hopefully get to perform some of our favorite Razorback traditions.
Any predictions for your game on Thursday vs. Kansas in Providence? I believe that on Thursday the Hogs are going to show up hungry to win. After a season of many highs and lows, I know Coach Cal is going to bring a team of athletes who are determined to make a name for themselves.
