TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Rogers State women's basketball (9-13, 4-12 MIAA) couldn't withstand a 23-point fourth quarter from Northeastern State (12-10, 8-8 MIAA) in a 61-47 game on Saturday.
 
Alayzha Knapp led all scorers with her third double-double of the season putting up 22 points with 10 rebounds to go along with two assists, two blocks and a steal. Both Alyza Aikins and Destiny Jones posted six points with Aikins adding six rebounds and an assist while Jones added a rebound, an assist and a steal.
 
In a defense-heavy start to the game, the Hillcats took a 4-3 lead three and half minutes into the first quarter. The RiverHawks quickly responded with 11-3 run to close out the quarter and take a 14-7 lead.
 
RSU found its footing in the second quarter as they ripped off a 12-4 run to start the final 10 minutes of the half and retake the lead at 19-18. Unfortunately, NSU answered back with a 6-3 run of their own to carry a slim 24-22 advantage into the break.
 
The Hillcats came out of the locker room on fire as they opened the second half on a 14-2 run to take a 36-26 lead with four minutes left in the period. However, the RiverHawks immediately went to work trimming the deficit down to two points at 38-36, but RSU still held a close 42-38 margin going into the fourth quarter.
 
In the fourth quarter, the Hillcats had no answer for the NSU offense as they roared back and outscored the Hillcats 23-5 in the period to claim the 61-47 win.
 
RSU will be back in action on Thursday, Feb. 15 as they begin a two-game road trip in Maryville, Mo. against Northwest Missouri. Tipoff is set for 5:30 p.m.