Basketball
Bears roll past Stetson after fast first-half start
UCA built a big first-half lead, forced turnovers, and held steady late to defeat Stetson 88-76 on the road.
DELAND, Fla. — Central Arkansas wasted little time taking control Thursday night, racing out to a big first-half lead on the way to an 88-76 ASUN men’s basketball win over Stetson at the Edmunds Center.
UCA improved to 18-10 overall and 13-2 in conference play by turning defense into offense right away. The visitors forced mistakes and quickly built a cushion that proved too large for Stetson to erase.
The Bears scored 28 points off turnovers, a number that told the story of the night. Active hands and quick breaks helped them stay in front from the opening minutes.
Midway through the first half, UCA had already created separation. Camren Hunter knocked down a three-pointer and helped push the lead into double digits.
The Bears continued to pressure the ball, collecting steals and converting them into easy baskets. That energy helped stretch the margin as the half moved along.
Late in the opening period, UCA closed strong. A layup from Parker Applegate sent the team into halftime with a 52-26 advantage.
The Bears shot with confidence and moved the ball well, piling up assists while limiting empty trips. Their steady offense matched the defensive effort.
By the break, UCA had full control. The early surge allowed them to play from ahead the rest of the way.
The Bears didn’t slow down after halftime, even when Stetson tried to chip away at the deficit.
Hunter sets the pace
UCA leaned on Hunter’s scoring throughout the game. The senior guard poured in 30 points, including 22 before halftime, and added six assists and four steals.
The Bears also got balanced help from the rest of the lineup. Ty Robinson scored 11 points, hitting three shots from beyond the arc while grabbing five rebounds and swiping four steals.
Cole McCormick added 12 points for UCA, making all of his free throws and handing out four assists. Luke Moore chipped in 11 points and contributed three assists and a block.
The Bears showed patience in their half-court sets while still attacking in transition when chances appeared. That mix kept the offense steady.
In the second half, UCA saw Stetson make a push behind a run of three-pointers. The Hatters cut into the lead but never got close enough to threaten the outcome.
The Bears responded each time with timely baskets. Javion Guy-King scored on three quick layups early in the half to steady the momentum.
When free throws mattered late, UCA delivered. Hunter went a perfect six-for-six at the line to help seal the result.
The Bears closed the game calmly, protecting the ball and limiting second-chance opportunities for Stetson.
Record mark and road ahead
With the victory, UCA tied its Division I single-season record with 18 wins. The team also extended its winning streak to 11 straight games.
The Bears have found a rhythm at the right time in conference play. Strong defense and balanced scoring have fueled the recent run.
Next up, UCA will travel to Fort Myers to face Florida Gulf Coast on Saturday at 1 p.m. Another win would push the team past its Division I record mark.
The Bears will look to carry the same defensive focus and fast start into that matchup.
