Conway, Ark.- The University of Central Arkansas Bears are set to open their 2025-26 men's basketball season on one of college basketball's biggest stages when they travel to Chapel Hill to face the University of North Carolina Tar Heels on Monday, November 3. The match-up at the Dean E. Smith Center marks the first-ever meeting between the Bears and the storied UNC program.

The Bears enter the season looking to build on their progress from Head Coach John Shulman's first year. Coach Shulman has only three returning players who saw significant minutes last season. Among them, Cole McCormick is the only returner to have played more than 200 minutes. Two players, Javion Guy-King and Ty Robinson, return after sitting out last year and are expected to contribute significantly. The Bears also welcome back Camren Hunter. Hunter spent last season at Wisconsin, but Bear fans will remember his performances in '21-'22 and '22-'23, when he was ASUN Freshman of the Year, led the team in scoring, and was a two-time All-ASUN performer. The Bears bring in a mix of freshmen and transfers who are expected to make an immediate impact. They will navigate a tough non-conference schedule as they prepare for ASUN play later in the season.

Facing the Tar Heels offers UCA a marquee opportunity to gain experience and exposure. They will compete against one of the sport's most tradition-rich programs. North Carolina, with their six national championships, will challenge the Bears and help prepare them for the season. The Tar Heels, led by Head Coach Hubert Davis, enter as a preseason top-25 team and are picked third in the ACC. Their roster is deep and talented, led by returning senior guard Seth Trimble and newcomer freshman forward Caleb Wilson.

Tip-off from Chapel Hill is set for 6:00 p.m. CT and will be broadcast live on the ACC Network, The Bear 91.3, Jack 92.7, or you can follow live stats online.