Senior Night win pushes Sugar Bears past Queens

Central Arkansas closed the regular season Friday night with a strong 65-47 win over Queens at the Farris Center, celebrating senior night with its ninth straight victory.

The home crowd watched the team reach 20 wins overall and lock in the No. 3 seed for the ASUN Tournament.

UCA had to settle in early after Queens scored the first five points of the game. The Royals grabbed quick momentum, but it didn’t last long as the home team answered with a steady run that shifted control before the first quarter ended.

The Sugar Bears responded with a 10-0 stretch that helped build an early cushion. That run gave them confidence, and the defense began to tighten as the opening period moved along.

UCA continued to build its lead in the second quarter by forcing tough shots and limiting clean looks. Queens struggled to find rhythm, especially from the field, as the defense stayed active around the basket.

Kelley Hutcherson, coach Tony Kemper | Ted McClenning-allBEARS+ Images

The Sugar Bears held the Royals to just two field goals in the second quarter. That effort helped create a double-digit advantage before halftime and allowed the offense to stay patient.

UCA shared the scoring load throughout the first half, with multiple players contributing baskets. That balance kept pressure on Queens and prevented any single defender from focusing on one scorer.

The Sugar Bears were led by Shae Littleford and Cheyanne Kemp, who each finished with 19 points. Their steady play helped maintain control when Queens tried to trim the deficit.

UCA also received a boost from Jenna Cook off the bench. She scored 11 points and added energy during key stretches, especially late in the game.

Strong defense and balanced offense carry night

The Sugar Bears opened the third quarter with another push, using a 9-0 run to stretch the lead. That burst created separation and forced Queens to call timeout.

UCA saw Littleford score 11 of her 19 points in the third quarter alone. Her ability to attack the basket and convert from mid-range helped keep the lead above 20 points.

The Sugar Bears pushed the margin to as many as 23 points during the second half. Every time Queens made a basket, the response came quickly at the other end.

UCA stayed disciplined on defense, closing out shooters and protecting the paint. Queens struggled from the floor during key stretches, including a 2-for-16 showing in the second quarter.

Bree Stephens | Ted McClenning-allBEARS+ Images

The Sugar Bears also honored their senior group with strong performances. Littleford, Bree Stephens and Julianna Gibson combined for 29 points, 11 rebounds and six assists in their final home appearance.

UCA controlled the fourth quarter by slowing the pace and making smart decisions with the ball. The offense didn’t rush possessions and continued to find open looks.

The Sugar Bears saw Cook hit a three-pointer midway through the fourth quarter that extended the lead to 27 points. Stephens added a late basket that kept the margin comfortable.

UCA substituted the seniors out in the closing minutes, allowing them to receive applause from the crowd. The moment marked the end of their regular-season careers at home.

Kelley Hutcherson | Ted McClenning-allBEARS+ Images

ASUN Tournament awaits

The Sugar Bears finished the regular season 20-10 overall and 13-5 in ASUN play. That record secured the No. 3 seed and a first-round bye in the conference tournament.

UCA will return to action Thursday, March 5 at 6:30 p.m. CT. The opponent will be the winner of the North Alabama and Queens matchup in the opening round.

The Sugar Bears enter postseason play riding a nine-game winning streak. That momentum could prove important as they prepare for tournament competition.

UCA now shifts focus to the ASUN Championship with confidence built from a strong finish to the regular season. Senior night ended with smiles, but the season isn’t finished yet.