The Central Arkansas women’s basketball team lost to Louisiana Tech 70-55 on Wednesday night in Ruston. The Sugar Bears held a halftime lead after a strong defensive showing, limiting the Lady Techsters to just 25 points in the first half. However, Louisiana Tech took control in the third quarter and maintained their advantage for the rest of the game.
Shae Littleford led Central Arkansas with 18 points, seven rebounds, and a steal. Bree Stephens contributed 12 points, nine rebounds, three assists, two steals, and two blocks. Stephens’ first block of the game moved her into second place in Central Arkansas history for career blocks with 144.
The opening minutes saw slow scoring from both teams. Littleford put Central Arkansas ahead early with free throws, and Paris Santacaterina added a three-pointer to extend the lead. Despite this start, Louisiana Tech tied the game through frequent trips to the foul line and ended the first quarter up by one point.
Central Arkansas regained momentum at the start of the second quarter with contributions from Kamryn Griffin and Cheyanne Kemp. The Sugar Bears built a nine-point lead midway through the period before Louisiana Tech responded with a run that narrowed the gap before halftime.
The third quarter marked a turning point as turnovers and missed shots hurt Central Arkansas. Louisiana Tech capitalized on these mistakes and shot 63 percent in that period compared to their earlier struggles. By the end of the third quarter, they had established a ten-point lead.
In the fourth quarter, Central Arkansas continued to play solid defense but could not overcome their offensive struggles. The Lady Techsters were awarded 14 free throws in that frame alone, helping them maintain their lead. Emerie Bohanon provided energy off the bench for Central Arkansas by drawing three charges, recording two steals, and hitting a three-pointer during her time on court.
Central Arkansas will play its final non-conference game before Christmas against Missouri State on December 22 in Springfield, Missouri. Afterward, they will have about a week off before starting ASUN conference play at Stetson.
