Central Arkansas Bears Secure Tournament Bid with ASUN Championship Win

Bears' Stifling Defense Shuts Down Queens Royals' Offense in Title Game

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The Central Arkansas Bears defeated the Queens Royals 72-65 in the ASUN Conference Championship game, securing the program's first-ever NCAA Tournament bid. Central Arkansas' elite defense was the difference, holding the Royals' half-court offense in check and forcing them into turnovers in transition.

Why it matters

This victory marks a historic milestone for the Central Arkansas basketball program, which has never before reached the NCAA Tournament. The Bears' defensive prowess will make them a dangerous opponent in the Big Dance, as they've proven capable of shutting down even the most potent offenses.

The details

Central Arkansas used its stifling defense to limit Queens' attack-and-kick actions, which had been a strength for the Royals all season. The Bears' ability to defend these plays choked off Queens' half-court creation, forcing them into turnovers and poor shots. On the other end, Central Arkansas capitalized on Queens' porous transition defense, scoring in bunches in the open floor.

  • The ASUN Conference Championship game was played on Sunday, March 8, 2026.
  • Central Arkansas has won 15 of its last 16 games leading up to the title game.

The players

Central Arkansas Bears

The Central Arkansas Bears are the men's basketball team of the University of Central Arkansas, competing in the ASUN Conference at the Division I level.

Queens Royals

The Queens Royals are the men's basketball team of Queens University of Charlotte, also competing in the ASUN Conference at the Division I level.

Camren Hunter

A standout player for the Central Arkansas Bears, known for his strong defensive play and ability to create offense in transition.

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What they’re saying

“We knew we had to bring our best defensive effort to shut down Queens' offense. Our guys executed the game plan perfectly and earned this tournament bid.”

— Anthony Boone, Head Coach, Central Arkansas Bears (Covers.com)

What’s next

Central Arkansas will now await their seeding and opponent for the 2026 NCAA Tournament, where they will look to make their mark as a tough defensive-minded team.

The takeaway

Central Arkansas' victory in the ASUN Championship showcases the program's growth and the value of building a stifling defense. The Bears' ability to shut down opposing offenses will make them a dangerous team in the NCAA Tournament, as they seek to make their first-ever appearance on college basketball's biggest stage.