WEATHERFORD, Okla. — Southwestern Oklahoma State (1-0) defeated Rogers State women's basketball (0-1), 65-49, in the season opener at the Pioneer Event Center on Friday night.

Rogers St. opened the first quarter with an effective defensive strategy, forcing nine turnovers and converting them into six steals. This pressure led to a 6-0 run, ignited by Jaiana Wiggins' layup, pulling the Hillcats back into contention after falling behind 6-0 early. The team capitalized on Southwestern Oklahoma's fouls, with Kate Melton hitting two crucial free throws to extend the lead.

The quarter concluded with RSU maintaining momentum through a late three-pointer from Melton, extending the lead to 15-9. Despite Southwestern's efforts, including a late free throw, RSU held a 16-10 advantage at the end of the first quarter.

RSU opened the second quarter by establishing brief momentum with a layup from Wiggins, assisted by Melton, taking an early 18-10 lead. However, Southwestern Oklahoma responded, closing the gap and eventually tying the score at 24 with two successful free throws from Destiny Jones at 2:55.

Despite defensive efforts that included three steals, RSU struggled with turnovers, committing ten in the quarter, which contributed to Southwestern Oklahoma's ability to regain control. Landry Allen's layup in the final minute and Elle Papahronis' buzzer-beating jumper extended Southwestern Oklahoma's lead as the quarter closed with a score of 32-24, favoring the home team.

The Hillcats began the third quarter with defensive intensity, securing three steals, but struggled with shot accuracy. Ataya Casaus sparked a momentum shift with a jumper at 7:38, which was followed by a defensive rebound by Marcela Pinedo. SWOSU managed to extend their lead with back-to-back 3-pointers early in the quarter.

RSU found rhythm midway through with a 3-pointer from Casaus at 5:22, assisted by Michelle Arens, and another from Samantha Shanks at 4:46, cutting the deficit. Despite several turnovers, RSU maintained pressure, culminating in a layup by Bailey Layman at 1:04. The quarter ended with RSU trailing 49–37 after Southwestern Okla. added points in the paint.

The Hillcats began the fourth quarter with a strong defensive presence, forcing turnovers and capitalizing with a jumper from Cheyan McDaniel at the 9:00 mark to begin chipping away at the deficit. A 3-pointer from Pinedo, assisted by Wiggins, brought the score to 43-49, tightening the contest early in the quarter.

The team maintained pressure with a key block by McDaniel and another 3-pointer from Layman, narrowing the gap to 46-49. However, despite multiple defensive efforts and steals, RSU struggled to sustain offensive momentum, as Southwestern Oklahoma capitalized on free throws and second-chance opportunities to extend its lead.

As the quarter concluded, RSU's efforts were not enough to overcome the deficit. Despite a late push that included free throws from Casaus, Southwestern Oklahoma closed the game strong, securing a 65-49 victory.

Wiggins led the team defensively with six steals while also contributing nine points. Casaus added 10 points, connecting on two 3-pointers and converting both of her free throws. Pinedo was active on the boards, collecting eight rebounds and adding five points. Melton scored nine points and recorded three assists, alongside her two steals.

RSU will wrap up the GAC/MIAA Crossover tomorrow at 3 p.m. against Oklahoma Baptist.