Hunter scores 30 as Central Arkansas downs Stetson 88-76 - AP News
AP News
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Central Arkansas secured an 88-76 victory over Stetson in a thrilling college basketball matchup, with standout performer Justin Hunter delivering a stellar performance by scoring 30 points. This win marked Central Arkansas' third consecutive triumph and showcased their resilience on both ends of the court. The team's balanced attack, led by Hunter's offensive dominance, was key to overcoming Stetson despite the visitors' early efforts.
The game took place in front of a lively home crowd, with both teams displaying strong performances. Central Arkansas entered the contest with a 12-6 record, while Stetson had been on a roll with five straight wins prior to this clash. The matchup was highly anticipated, especially given Stetson's recent success and their reputation for competitive play.
Hunter's ability to score efficiently, both from the field and the free-throw line, was instrumental in sealing the victory. His leadership and clutch shooting under pressure were highlights of the game. Additionally, Central Arkansas' defense played a crucial role by keeping Stetson's top scorer in check, limiting their overall offensive output.
Stetson, despite the loss, demonstrated commendable effort, particularly in the first half where they kept pace with Central Arkansas. However, key mistakes down the stretch and missed opportunities to capitalize on fast breaks ultimately cost them the game. This defeat snapped their five-game winning streak, serving as a reminder of the competitive nature of college basketball.
The implications of this victory for Central Arkansas extend beyond just another win; it solidified their position in the conference standings and boosted team morale ahead of upcoming challenges. Fans of college basketball will be eager to see how both teams build on this performance moving forward.
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Originally published on AP News on 2/20/2026