Central Arkansas lost to North Texas 74-56 on Thursday night at the Super Pit in Denton, Texas. The Bears, now with a 1-4 record, struggled against the Mean Green’s defensive pressure and committed 19 turnovers during the game.
The first half was closely contested. Camren Hunter started strong for Central Arkansas with an early three-pointer, followed by Malchiah Marable converting a three-point play to give the Bears a 6-0 lead. North Texas responded quickly with points from Reece Robinson and Dylan Arnett. Cole McCormick extended Central Arkansas’s lead with a three-pointer before North Texas tied the game at 11 after Cole Franklin hit from beyond the arc. The Mean Green finished the half ahead 28-26 after Josiah Shackleford scored on a tip-in late in the period.
In the second half, North Texas outscored Central Arkansas 46-30. Dylan Arnett made key contributions with rebounds and scoring, including a fast-break dunk midway through the half. Je’Shawn Stevenson added free throws and a layup to help extend North Texas’s lead further. Despite efforts by Central Arkansas—such as Hunter narrowing the deficit to 35-32 with another three-pointer—the Bears could not regain momentum as North Texas maintained control until the end.
Camren Hunter led Central Arkansas with 12 points, making four of six free throws and recording two steals. Cole McCormick contributed six points, eight rebounds, and two steals. Malchiah Marable added five points, three blocks, and four rebounds.
Central Arkansas will return home for their next game against Eastern Washington on Sunday, November 23 at the Farris Center in Conway, Arkansas. Tip-off is scheduled for 1 p.m.
