05 Nov 2025 Bears drop opener at Tar Heels

Posted at 4:59 PMh in Sports by

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — North Carolina defeated Central Ark. 94-54 on Monday at the Dean Smith Center. This game marked the first-ever meeting between the two teams. Central Ark. (0-1, 0-0 ASUN) scored 21 points from the bench but couldn’t keep pace with North Carolina. The Tar Heels, a team with a storied history including seven NCAA national championships, showcased their prowess on the court.

Chapel Hill, NC – Nov 3: NCAA Men’s Basketball – Central Arkansas at North Carolina at Dean E. Smith Center in Chapel Hill, NC on November 3, 2025. (Credit: Andy Mead/YCJ)

The first half began with North Carolina taking control early, capitalizing on turnovers by Central Arkansas. Caleb Wilson’s series of dunks helped the home team extend their lead, with a notable fast-break assisted by Evans at 18:05. Central Arkansas managed to respond sporadically, with Cole McCormick contributing a three-pointer and a late layup, but couldn’t maintain momentum. North Carolina’s efficient shooting, including a late three-pointer by Evans at the 0:51 mark, solidified their commanding 51-23 lead at the end of the half.

Central Arkansas opened the second half with a layup by Camren Hunter, but North Carolina quickly responded with a layup from Henri Veesaar, extending their lead. Caleb Wilson and Seth Trimble led a strong offensive push for the Tar Heels, contributing both in scoring and assists. Despite efforts from Central Arkansas, including a notable 3-pointer by Ty Robinson at the 7:17 mark, North Carolina maintained control.

Chapel Hill, NC – Nov 3: NCAA Men’s Basketball – Central Arkansas at North Carolina at Dean E. Smith Center in Chapel Hill, NC on November 3, 2025. (Credit: Andy Mead/YCJ)

Several moments showcased Central Arkansas’s resilience, including a pair of consecutive three-pointers by Robinson around the 7-minute mark, which narrowed the margin briefly. North Carolina only outscoring Central Arkansas 43-31 in the second half. 

McCormick led with nine points on 4-for-5 shooting, adding four rebounds before fouling out. Bolden contributed eight points and five rebounds, alongside one assist and one steal. Luke Moore scored eight points and was active defensively with three steals. Parker Applegate added two steals to his two points and two rebounds.

Looking ahead, Central Arkansas will host Champion Christian on Saturday, Nov. 8. The game will tip off at 1 p.m. at the Farris Center.