Conway, Ark. - The University of Central Arkansas Sugar Bears (5-8, 2-0 ASUN) will host the Bellarmine Knights (4-8, 1-1 ASUN) this week in a key ASUN matchup. The Sugar Bears enter the contest with a perfect 3-0 all-time record against Bellarmine, and they'll look to continue that dominance in what promises to be an exciting clash.

Sugar Bears Outlook
UCA has started conference play strong with a 2-0 record. Despite a 5-8 overall record, the Sugar Bears have shown their potential, particularly in conference play, where they've secured two crucial victories. UCA has demonstrated a solid balance between offense and defense, and the team will aim to extend its winning streak in front of their home crowd.

Key Players to Watch for UCA
- Laci Bohannan leads the team with 127 kills and is also a defensive force with 84 digs and 5 service aces. Her all-around ability makes her a key player in both the Sugar Bears' offensive and defensive game plans.
- Mackenzie Vernon (126 kills) and Regan Harp (107 kills, 9 service aces) have been important offensive weapons, with Harp also contributing to the serve and defense.
- Caylan Koons, 2x ASUN setter of the week, leads UCA with 447 assists and 108 digs. Her leadership from the setter position has been instrumental in coordinating the Sugar Bears' offense.
- Greyson Button, with 35 blocks, has been a key player on defense, making her an essential presence at the net.

Bellarmine Outlook
Bellarmine enters this matchup with a 4-8 overall record and a 1-1 mark in conference play. While the Knights have faced some early-season struggles, they've shown promise and will be looking to even their conference record.

Key Players to Watch for Bellarmine
- Natalie Bland leads the Knights with 163 kills and 96 digs, making her the primary offensive threat. She will be Bellarmine's key player in trying to break through UCA's defense.
- Kylie Vanhoy, the Knights' setter, has 412 assists and 103 digs while contributing 15 service aces. Her all-around play will be crucial in managing the offense and defense for Bellarmine.
- Mara Perry leads the team in digs with 156, and her ability to contain UCA's powerful hitters will be a key defensive focus for the Knights.
- Jayda Harris(24 blocks) will play a critical role in slowing down the Sugar Bears' attack at the net.

Key Matchup
The Sugar Bears' strength at the net, particularly from Greyson Button and Allison Holloway, will be key to neutralizing Bellarmine's offensive threats, such as Natalie Bland and Kylie Vanhoy. UCA's defensive game, especially in digging and blocking, will also be a critical factor in controlling the pace of the match.


Final Thoughts
This will be a crucial matchup for both teams as they continue to navigate the ASUN. UCA will look to remain perfect against Bellarmine and extend its undefeated conference streak, while Bellarmine will be looking to change the momentum and pick up a key road win.

Game time is at 6 p.m. in Conway, Arkansas in the Prince Center. With both teams hungry for a win, this will be an exciting and hard-fought contest as the Sugar Bears aim to stay perfect all-time against Bellarmine.