Basketball
Bears hold off FGCU 85-83 in ASUN conference opener
UCA defeated FGCU 85-83 at home to open ASUN play, using steady second-half execution to secure the win.
CONWAY, Ark. — Central Arkansas opened ASUN Conference play with an 85-83 win over Florida Gulf Coast on Thursday at the Farris Center.
The Bears trailed at halftime but responded with improved execution in the second half to earn the conference victory. UCA moved to 6-8 overall and 1-0 in ASUN play, while FGCU fell to 6-8 and 0-1 in league action.
FGCU scored first on a layup by Isaiah Malone and stayed in front for much of the opening half. The Eagles controlled the pace early and built small leads through inside scoring and timely perimeter shots.
UCA Bears coach John Shulman during game against Florida Gulf Coast at the Farris Center in Conway, Ark. | Ted McClenning-allBEARS+ Images
The Bears answered with balanced offense. Malchiah Marable scored inside to keep UCA close, and Camren Hunter knocked down a late three-pointer to cut into the deficit. FGCU carried a 40-37 lead into halftime.
UCA opened the second half with renewed energy. Ty Robinson tied the game early with a three-pointer, and the Bears stayed within striking distance as the teams traded baskets for several minutes.
Robinson continued to lead the way offensively and gave UCA its biggest boost late. His three-pointer with just over two minutes remaining put the Bears ahead 80-77 and shifted momentum.
FGCU continued to apply pressure, including a late dunk by Malone that trimmed the margin. The Bears responded with strong rebounding and careful ball handling to protect the lead.
Free throws and defensive stops in the closing seconds helped UCA hold on for the two-point win as the Bears closed out the game at the line.
Robinson led the Bears with 27 points and seven rebounds. Hunter finished with 17 points and seven rebounds, while Javion Guy-King added 16 points. Cole McCormick also scored 12 points for UCA.
The Bears finished with an edge on the glass and limited turnovers, which helped control key possessions late in the game.
UCA remains at home for its next contest, hosting Stetson on Saturday afternoon at the Farris Center.
Key takeaways
- The Bears rallied from a halftime deficit to win their ASUN opener at home.
- Ty Robinson led UCA with 27 points, including a key three-pointer late.
- Strong rebounding and late execution helped the Bears secure a close conference win.
