Central Arkansas secured a narrow 62-60 victory over Jacksonville at the Farris Center on Thursday night, improving their record to 8-10 overall and 3-2 in ASUN play. The Bears overcame a 10-point halftime deficit by scoring 37 points in the second half.
The game opened with Central Arkansas taking an early lead after Malchiah Marable’s layup, assisted by Camren Hunter. Hunter also recorded a career-high eight defensive rebounds during the game. Jacksonville responded quickly, tying the score through Jason Thirdkill Jr.’s tip-in. Ty Robinson contributed to Central Arkansas’ initial advantage with a three-pointer and a layup, both assisted by Luke Moore. However, Jacksonville stayed close behind Hayden Wood’s three-point shooting and eventually took control before halftime. A scoring run featuring Chris Lockett’s three-pointer and Charles Caporaso’s layups helped the Dolphins establish a 35-25 lead at the break.
In the second half, both teams traded baskets in an intense contest. Jacksonville extended its lead early on with Evan Sterck’s layup and another three-pointer, making it 40-27. Central Arkansas then mounted a comeback, highlighted by Moore’s crucial three-pointer at the 2:31 mark that gave them a late lead of 60-57. As time expired, Thirdkill Jr.’s tip-in brought Jacksonville within one point before Moore sealed the win for Central Arkansas with a free throw.
Luke Moore led all scorers with a career-high and season-best 19 points, including six field goals and three made three-pointers. Camren Hunter added 13 points and eight rebounds while Cole McCormick contributed 12 points, five rebounds, and one block.
Central Arkansas will next host North Florida on Saturday, January 17 at the Farris Center in Conway with tip-off scheduled for 1 p.m.
