UCA pulls away from Stetson to stay perfect in ASUN play

CONWAY, Ark. — Central Arkansas opened Atlantic Sun Conference play at home with a 93-73 win over Stetson on Saturday night at the Farris Center.

UCA improved to 2-0 in ASUN play and continued a strong start to conference action with steady scoring and control on both ends of the floor.

The Bears took the lead early and built a 41-28 advantage by halftime, using balanced offense to keep Stetson from gaining momentum.

Camren Hunter led UCA with 21 points, scoring from both inside and outside while also creating opportunities for teammates.

UCA Bears Camren Hunter comes to the sidelines in game against Stetson at the Farris Center in Conway, Ark. | Ted McClenning-allBEARS+ Images

Ty Robinson added 20 points and made all three of his free-throw attempts, helping the Bears maintain consistency throughout the game.

UCA opened the second half with a quick scoring push to create separation, starting with free throws that extended the lead.

Stetson attempted to respond with perimeter shooting, but the Bears answered each run with timely baskets and defensive stops.

Hunter connected on a key 3-pointer midway through the second half that pushed the UCA lead to 66-43 and slowed any chance of a comeback.

The Bears remained steady on offense and limited second-chance opportunities, keeping Stetson from closing the gap late.

UCA Bears Ty Robinson looks to make a pass in game against Stetson at the Farris Center in Conway, Ark. | Ted McClenning-allBEARS+ Images

Bears lean on depth and defense

UCA finished with 38 bench points, providing consistent production and energy throughout the game.

The Bears forced 15 turnovers and turned those mistakes into 19 points, helping control the tempo.

UCA also won the rebounding battle 35-28, limiting extra possessions and maintaining control in the paint.

The Bears shot better than 50 percent from the field, allowing UCA to keep a double-digit lead for most of the second half.

Stetson dropped to 5-10 overall and 1-1 in ASUN play following the loss.

UCA will continue conference play on the road when the Bears travel to Bellarmine on Thursday, Jan. 8, with tipoff set for 6 p.m.

Key takeaways

• UCA improved to 2-0 in ASUN play with a 93-73 home win over Stetson.
• Hunter scored 21 points, and Robinson added 20 to lead balanced scoring.
• The Bears used bench depth and forced turnovers to pull away in the second half.