LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – SpectacuaLR has long been a night filled with good times and impactful fundraising for student-athlete scholarships for Little Rock Athletics — but Thursday night's gala may go down as one of the most unforgettable.
A capacity crowd of 500-plus packed the Jack Stephens Center floor to celebrate Trojan tradition and pay tribute to longtime radio voice Ray Tucker. By evening's end, the event had shattered records, surpassing $700,000 generated — the most in SpectacuaLR history — and Tucker received a surprise honor that left him nearly speechless.
Director of Athletics
Frank M. Cuervo proudly announced the record-breaking total before sharing that the Jack Stephens Center's hospitality space would be named in honor of Tucker –
'The Ray Tucker Legends Club.' The event space is home to exclusive gatherings and game-day hospitality for key supporters. The club will be renovated prior to the start of the upcoming basketball seasons and dedicated at a ceremony on a date in the future.
"It's only fitting that the Legends Club will now bear the name of a true Trojan legend," said Cuervo. "Ray Tucker's voice has been the soundtrack of countless unforgettable moments in Little Rock Athletics history. His passion, professionalism, and love for this University have left an indelible mark on generations of student-athletes, fans, and friends. Naming this space in his honor ensures that his legacy will continue to echo through the Jack Stephens Center for years to come."
For Tucker, the moment was emotional and unexpected, as the crowd rose to its feet in a standing ovation recognizing his decades of service and passion for Little Rock Athletics.
""This was one of the greatest nights of my life," Tucker said. "I had no idea. Wow - I just can't believe it. I'm so honored."
The evening's program included a touching video tribute to Tucker featuring messages from Little Rock head basketball coach Darrell Walker, former head coaches Porter Moser, Chris Beard, and Steve Shields, and longtime radio co-host Randy Rainwater, among others. The retrospective was followed by an introduction from Arkansas Democrat-Gazette sports editor Wally Hall, who reflected on Tucker's lasting impact on sports in Arkansas.
"I had so many friends here tonight, and some people came who were a complete surprise," he said. "Trojan Athletics is my family. I'm so grateful they came to support me and the cause. This is a very important fundraiser for the department, and I was so glad to be a part of it."
The night not only celebrated Tucker's legacy but also highlighted the continued growth and momentum of Little Rock Athletics. In recent weeks, the department has marked several major milestones — including the announcement of plans to launch the Trojans for the Future capital campaign, a bold initiative focused on student-athlete investment, program excellence and facilities enhancements. Last Friday, the University announced its move to the newly formed United Athletic Conference (UAC), and celebrated with a pep rally and news conference earlier this week.
"There's an undeniable sense of momentum surrounding Little Rock Athletics right now," Cuervo said. 'Our move to the United Athletic Conference, the launch of our first-ever capital campaign, and the record-breaking success of SpectacuaLR all speak to one thing—our program is rising. The energy and commitment of Trojan Nation are driving unprecedented progress, and together, we are shaping a powerful new era for Little Rock Athletics and we're just getting started!"
The Trojans open the basketball season
Friday with the
Central Arkansas Tip-Off Classic, featuring a doubleheader against
the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.
- Women's Game: 6 p.m.
- Men's Game: 8 p.m.
The action continues
Tuesday, October 28, when the men's team hosts
Arkansas Tech in an exhibition matchup at
7 p.m.
Regular-season play begins the following week as the women's team hosts
Central Baptist College at
7 p.m. on Monday, November 3, followed by the men's home opener against
Arkansas Baptist College on
Tuesday, November 4, also at
7 p.m.
🎟️
For tickets, visit
LRTrojans.com or call
501-916-3257.
