Conway, Ark. - The Central Arkansas Sugar Bears (14-11, 11-3 ASUN) are set for two pivotal road games this weekend as they take on Eastern Kentucky University and Bellarmine University. The Sugar Bears looks to add to their 11-3 conference record and build momentum as the ASUN tournament approaches.

Scouting the Sugar Bears
Central Arkansas is having a strong season, with standout performances in conference play and a balanced roster. Laci Bohannan leads the Sugar Bears offensively with 325 kills, supported by Mackenzie Vernon (273) and Regan Harp (208). Caylan Koons, with 963 assists, is pivotal to the offense's rhythm, also contributing 22 service aces. Alexis McDaniel anchors the defense with 395 digs, while Allison Holloway leads the team in blocks with 83.

Matchup Against Eastern Kentucky University
Eastern Kentucky (19-8, 10-4 ASUN) is a formidable opponent, especially at home, with an 8-1 record. The Colonels are riding a two-game winning streak and are led by Sarah Mitchell, who has posted 348 kills this season, and AG Vandagriff (283). Setter Emilee Hill provides EKU with 672 assists and also contributes on defense with 338 digs. Josie Schmitendorf leads in digs with 486, while Paige Wagers is a blocking powerhouse with 117 blocks, making EKU a well-rounded team to challenge the Sugar Bears.

Matchup Against Bellarmine University
Bellarmine (6-18, 3-11 ASUN) enters the matchup looking to snap a seven-game losing streak. Their offense is spearheaded by Natalie Bland with 316 kills, supported by Addison Foote (175) and Erika Smith (166). Kylie Vanhoy leads Bellarmine in assists with 719, while Tessa Nauert has recorded 24 service aces, making her a threat on serve. Defensively, Mara Perry has amassed 305 digs, while Erika Smith leads in blocks with 49. Although Bellarmine has struggled recently, they'll look to leverage home-court advantage and give the Sugar Bears a tough match.

Keys to Victory
The Sugar Bears need to keep up their aggressive offense, especially through Bohannan and Vernon, while maintaining consistency in serve and limiting errors. Defensively, McDaniel's stability in the back row and Holloway's blocking at the net will be crucial in both matchups. Against EKU's balanced lineup, UCA must stay sharp defensively, while against Bellarmine, taking advantage of their recent struggles could give the Sugar Bears an edge.

Tune in to see the Sugar Bears as they hit the road to face Eastern Kentucky on November 15 at 5 p.m. and Bellarmine, November 16 at 3 p.m., aiming to secure vital wins and finish the regular season strong ahead of tournament play.