Central Arkansas Bears advanced to the ASUN Conference Championship game for the first time in their Division I history with a 73-63 semifinal win over the Florida Gulf Coast Eagles on Saturday at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena.
Central Arkansas (22-11, 15-3 ASUN) controlled the paint with 36 points inside while holding off several runs by Florida Gulf Coast (16-18, 8-10 ASUN). The Bears led 35-32 at halftime after a back-and-forth opening half that featured an early three-pointer from Camren Hunter and several momentum swings between the two teams.
The Bears pulled away in the second half behind strong play from Ty Robinson, who delivered key baskets including a three-pointer that helped stretch the lead. Florida Gulf Coast attempted a late comeback, but Central Arkansas controlled the final minute and knocked down free throws to secure the victory.
Hunter led the Bears with 23 points, eight rebounds and a perfect 8-for-8 performance from the free-throw line. Javion Guy-King added 12 points, eight rebounds and three assists, while Robinson finished with 13 points, five rebounds and three steals. Cole McCormick also scored 13 points, knocking down three three-pointers.
Central Arkansas will face the winner of Austin Peay and Queens in the ASUN Championship game Sunday at 1 in Jacksonville, Florida, with the title game set to air on ESPN2.
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