Conway, Ark. – In a match that had everything—momentum swings, clutch moments, and edge-of-your-seat drama—the University of Central Arkansas Sugar Bears stunned the Oklahoma Sooners 3-2 in non-conference volleyball, winning 25-19, 20-25, 25-18, 21-25, 16-14 at the Farris Center. The victory snapped a string of losses for UCA and handed Oklahoma its second defeat of the season.
 

Standout Performances & Stats

• Central Arkansas

  • Laci Bohannan was the star of the night, hammering down 20 kills and surpassing 800 career kills in the process. The senior outside hitter continues to be the focal point of UCA's offense and a steady leader on the court.

  • The Sugar Bears outblocked Oklahoma 11.0 to 6.0 and finished with a .343 hitting percentage compared to OU's .257, a mark of their efficiency and balance.

• Oklahoma

  • Emoni Bush tallied 15 kills and was a steady presence offensively.

  • Kelli Jo Burgess chipped in 12 kills on .579 hitting, one of the most efficient hitters on the floor.

  • The Sooners set a program record with 14 service aces, including nine in the first set alone.

Key Moments & Match Flow

• Dominant Start by Oklahoma
  The Sooners opened strong, taking the first set 25-19 behind Harper Hall's five consecutive service aces that broke open a tight frame.

• Sugar Bears Answer Back
  UCA wasn't going to roll over. They grabbed the second set 25-20, then carried momentum into the third with a 25-18 win, showing poise and defensive toughness at the net.

• Sooners Regroup, Force Decider
  Oklahoma steadied in the fourth, riding a balanced attack to a 25-21 win that forced a decisive fifth set.

• Epic Fifth Set Finish
• The final set was back-and-forth. OU led 8-6 at the switch and later 12-11, but the Sugar Bears clawed back, taking their first lead since early in the set at 13-12. UCA sealed the 16-14 win on an Oklahoma attack error, sparking a celebration on their home floor.

What This Means for Both Teams

• UCA's momentum boost: For the Sugar Bears (now 3-7), this win over a SEC opponent is a signature moment early in the season. Bohannan's career milestone adds another layer of significance as the team looks to build momentum heading into conference play.

• OU's missed chances: Oklahoma flashed dominance from the service line and in stretches of offense but couldn't close the deal in the fifth. It's a reminder that consistency and composure late in sets will be key for the Sooners going forward.

Next Match-Up 
The Sugar Bears host Lipscomb on Sept. 26th at 6:00 p.m. and Austin Peay on Sept. 28th at 1:00 p.m. at the Prince Center in Conway, Ark.