The Den Zone
by March 24, 2026 8:20 am 159 views
Jerry Rapert had owned a pharmacy and worked in some other businesses but decided he wanted to open his own sports bar and grill. He had a conversation with Arkansas State University Chancellor Todd Shields and both became intrigued with the possibility of opening one on the A-State campus.
Rapert, who is an A-State alum and fervent college sports fan, opened The Den Zone in the ASU Pavilion on campus in February 2026. They opened with a limited menu, but the company plans to expand it this Spring.
The goal for The Den Zone is to become a hub for students. All A-State games will be played on an array of televisions, and there will be live music every Thursday night. A DJ will be brought in on Fridays and Saturdays.