Conway, Ark. - The Central Arkansas Sugar Bears continue ASUN Conference play this week with a home match against North Alabama on Wednesday night in the Prince Center, followed by a road trip to North Florida on Saturday. UCA enters the week at 5–7 overall and 2–0 in league play, aiming to build on a strong conference start.

Sugar Bears Outlook

Behind Laci Bohannan's 117 kills (2.93 per set) and the steady hand of setter Caylan Koons (322 assists, 7.49 per set), UCA has leaned on a balanced offense while also making their presence felt at the net. The Sugar Bears average 2.4 blocks per set, outpacing their opponents, and their defensive anchor remains a key to slowing down conference attacks.

While UCA has excelled in blocking, consistency in attack will be a focus this week. The Sugar Bears are hitting .198 as a team compared to opponents' .234, underscoring the importance of reducing errors and maximizing high-percentage swings. Serving and passing will also be critical, with UCA and opponents nearly even in aces (65–67) and reception errors.

Match 1: vs North Alabama (Wednesday, Oct. 1 – Prince Center)

The Sugar Bears are at home, where they are 4–2 this season, for "MVP Night" against North Alabama. The Lions will look to disrupt UCA's rhythm with serve pressure and a quick offense, but the Sugar Bears' blocking advantage and home-court comfort give them an edge. Expect Bohannan and fellow attackers to be tested by UNA's defense, while Koons' distribution will be key in keeping UCA's offense unpredictable.

Match 2: at North Florida (Saturday, Oct. 4 – Jacksonville, Fla.)

The road trip to Jacksonville provides another tough test. North Florida has been a steady ASUN contender and is known for disciplined defense, especially at home. Historically, UCA and UNF have played tight matches, including a five-set Sugar Bears victory in 2024. To replicate that success, UCA will need to sustain rallies, stay aggressive at the service line, and maintain composure in pressure moments.

What's at Stake

UCA's 2–0 ASUN start puts them in an early favorable position in the standings, but matchups against UNA and UNF will be pivotal in sustaining momentum. Protecting the home floor on Wednesday and finding a way to win on the road Saturday would send a strong message that the Sugar Bears are contenders in the 2025 ASUN race.