09 Apr 2025 Bears sign Union University’s Applegate

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas has added a highly touted and highly talented transfer in Union University’s Parker Applegate, according to head coach John Shulman.

Applegate, from Murfreesboro, Tenn., played two seasons at Union, in Jackson, Tenn. The 6-foot-8, 215-pound forward averaged 12.3 points and 9.0 rebounds as a sophomore last season, and shot 53.6 percent (33 of 63) from three-point range and 87.9 percent from the free-throw line.

“Parker is truly a special addition to our team who I am extra excited to add because of his background,” said Shulman. “He is a young man that I have known for a long time. Sometimes the best way to find out how you really feel about a player is to have to compete against them, and we hated playing against Parker Applegate when we were at UAH. 

“He plays with a level of toughness, physicality, and effort that can truly change a game – you love him when he’s on your team, hate him when he’s on the other team, and I’m just glad I now finally get to love him. 

“He comes to UCA with two years of experience in the Gulf South Conference, where he posted extremely efficient numbers shooting better than 50% from behind the arc this past season. Additionally, he led his team in total rebounds as a freshmen & sophomore. Clearly, he possesses a rare combination of skill and toughness. 

“Everything about Parker and his game fit into our program perfectly. He will make the Bears better every day.”