The Central Arkansas women’s basketball team will start its 2025-26 season on Monday with an away game against the University of Missouri Tigers in Columbia, Missouri. The game is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m.
This season, the Sugar Bears introduce several new players while retaining key contributors from last year. Bree Stephens, who was named ASUN Defensive Player of the Year and ranked tenth nationally in blocks last season, returns to lead the defense. Cheyanne Kemp, known for her scoring off the bench with six double-digit games last year, is expected to play a larger role following the departure of the team’s top four scorers. Sophomore Jenna Cook is also set for increased playing time after making notable contributions as a freshman.
The roster includes five transfers and four freshmen. Among them is Shae Littleford, a graduate transfer from UT Martin who has scored nearly 1,000 points in her collegiate career and brings strong shooting skills to Central Arkansas. Other transfers are Paris Santacaterina (San Diego), Julianna Gibson (Saint Francis), Linda Amaning (Saint Peters), and Laylah Reese from Three Rivers College.
Three of the four freshmen—Emerie Bohanon, Alexis Cox, and Alivia Cox—are graduates of Conway High School. Bohanon surpassed 1,000 points during her high school career; Alexis Cox received multiple all-conference and all-state honors; Alivia Cox participated in multiple sports and brings athletic versatility. Carla Ramirez joins from Spain as another guard option.
Missouri will also begin a new chapter under head coach Kellie Harper. Grace Slaughter returns for the Tigers after averaging 15 points per game last season and being named to the Cheryl Miller Small Forward of the Year Watchlist. The Tigers added eight transfers during the offseason.
The matchup will be streamed on SECN+, with live statistics available online. Fans can listen to radio coverage on 91.3 The Bear with Steve Owens providing commentary.
