Arkansas State defeats UCA 112-77 in charity exhibition

Experience a spectacular display of offensive firepower as the Arkansas State men’s basketball team triumphs over in-state rival Central Arkansas 112-77 in a charitable exhibition match at First National Bank Arena. The crowd, filled with energy and excitement, contributes to the cause by raising funds for the Wynne Relief and Recovery Center, supporting the ongoing recovery efforts after the city was devastated by a tornado earlier this year.

On the court, the Red Wolves showcase their dominance with five players scoring in double figures. Their exceptional teamwork is evident with 23 assists and minimal turnovers. Shooting at an impressive 50.6 percent from the field and an even 50 percent from beyond the arc, A-State manages to capitalize on 14 takeaways, resulting in 25 points.

Meanwhile, UCA struggles to find their rhythm, shooting at a lower percentage from the floor and the foul line. Tucker Anderson and Elias Cato perform admirably with 22 points each for the Bears.

Freddy Hicks proves himself as the top scorer of the game, recording 23 points, including four three-pointers. Caleb Fields demonstrates versatility with 18 points, nine assists, and five rebounds. Derrian Ford and Avery Felts also contribute significantly with 18 and 15 points respectively. Dyondre Dominguez impresses with 15 points off the bench.

Not only do the Red Wolves dominate offensively, but they also excel in rebounding, outmatching the Bears 49-32 overall and collecting an impressive 20 offensive rebounds. Izaiyah Nelson stands out with a game-high 11 rebounds, while Lado Laku’s tremendous performance includes nine rebounds, five blocks, and six points in just 17 minutes of reserve action.

The game starts with Central Arkansas taking an early lead, but the Red Wolves quickly respond with an 8-0 run, propelling them to a 21-14 advantage. A-State continues to build on their lead, widening the gap to 19 points with a buzzer-beating corner shot by Freddy Hicks, ending the first half at 58-39.

UCA manages to reduce the deficit to 16 points with a 3-pointer from Carl Daugherty Jr., but A-State responds with a 13-0 run, powered by eight points from Derrian Ford. With 4:02 remaining, Avery Felts’ three-pointer causes the Red Wolves to surpass the 100-point mark for the second time in exhibition games, leading 102-67. In the final minutes, local talent Avery Felts extends the lead even further with a corner three, resulting in an impressive 109-72 victory for A-State.