FORT MYERS, Fla. — Central Arkansas (18-11, 13-3 ASUN) fell to Florida Gulf Coast University (14-15, 8-8 ASUN) in overtime, 75-71, at Alico Arena on Saturday afternoon. The Bears connected on 11 three-pointers, but the Eagles' advantage in points in the paint proved decisive. The Bears have only lost three ASUN games this season and all three of them were in overtime.

The game began with FGCU securing an early lead, thanks to Jordan Ellerbee's jumper at 19:38 and Rahmir Barno's fastbreak layup in the opening minute. Central Ark. responded as Ty Robinson scored a layup to narrow the gap to 4-2, Robinson ended up with his second double-double of the season. The teams exchanged leads, with the Bears' Truman Byrne hitting a 3-pointer at 15:03 to bring the score to 7-9. A back-and-forth battle ensued, highlighted by a 3-pointer from Harrison Beauchamp that tied the game at 11-11 with 12:02 remaining. The first half concluded with a pivotal 3-pointer by George Washington III at the 28-second mark, allowing the Eagles to lead 32-29 at halftime.

Camren Hunter made an impact early in the second with a layup at the 19:19 mark and continued to contribute throughout the half with multiple baskets, including a 3-pointer assisted by Javion Guy-King. The Eagles responded with Jordan Ellerbee hitting a 3-pointer and Michael Duax contributing a layup, giving them a brief lead. Central Arkansas countered with a series of three-pointers, including two from Truman Byrne, to regain and maintain their edge. FGCU closed the half with a layup by Isaiah Malone at the buzzer, assisted by J.R. Konieczny, tying the game.

Central Arkansas and FGCU were locked in a close contest during overtime, marked by frequent lead changes. Camren Hunter, converting four free throws and adding a layup to keep his team competitive. With 2:09 remaining, Darren Williams of the Eagles hit a crucial 3-pointer, assisted by Rahmir Barno, to cut the deficit to one. In the final minute, Jordan Ellerbee tied the game with a 3-pointer for FGCU and then took the lead with a fast-break dunk following a steal. Isaiah Malone sealed FGCU's 75-71 victory with two free throws.

Camren Hunter  
- 24 points  
- 6/6 free throws made  
- 6 rebounds  
- 3 assists  

Ty Robinson  
- 12 points  
- 11 rebounds  
- 2 steals  
- 2 assists  

Cole McCormick  
- 9 points  
- 9 rebounds  
- 4/6 free throws made  

Harrison Beauchamp  
- 9 points  
- 3/3 three-pointers made  
- 3 rebounds  

Malchiah Marable  
- 4 points  
- 2 blocks  
- 3 rebounds  

In their next game, Central Arkansas will travel to face Austin Peay on Wednesday, Feb. 25. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m. in Clarksville, Tennessee.