DENVER, Colo. — Hillcat women's basketball (2-3) made it back-to-back wins as they defeated Regis (0-4), 68-48, at Regis Fieldhouse, leading for the entire game Saturday night. 

The Hillcats controlled the paint with a 30-16 scoring advantage and secured a 50-39 edge in rebounds. RSU's defense contributed to the victory with 10 steals and seven blocks, limiting the Rangers to 25% shooting from the field.

Rogers State started the first quarter with strong defensive pressure, highlighted by Jaiana Wiggins' block just seconds into the game. The team quickly established a 7–0 lead, with Cheyan McDaniel_Deatherage contributing a 3-pointer at 8:29. RSU maintained momentum through defensive stops, including multiple blocks by Wiggins, which limited the Rangers' scoring opportunities.

Samantha Shanks and Ataya Casaus capitalized on fast breaks to extend the lead. Despite the Rangers closing the gap with a late 3-pointer, RSU concluded the quarter with a 15–13 lead, driven by solid defensive rebounds and timely scoring.

RSU opened the second quarter with an assertive performance, building momentum through efficient scoring and strong defensive plays. Kate Melton and Wiggins each contributed early with key baskets, while Casaus' steal at 8:35 led to another scoring opportunity. A significant turning point came when Destiny Jones executed a fast-break layup following a steal, extending the lead to 26–21.

The momentum continued as RSU dominated in the paint, with Michelle Arens and Casaus adding crucial baskets. Marcela Pinedo's successful free throws further widened the gap, and Shanks capped the quarter with a 3-pointer at the 37-second mark, solidifying a strong finish. RSU ended the quarter ahead, 37–25.

Rogers State began the third quarter with a strong offensive push, highlighted by Wiggins' layup just seconds into play, assisted by McDaniel-Deatherage. The team maintained momentum with McDaniel-Deatherage's 3-pointer at 8:28, extending their lead. The Rangers responded with a 3-pointer from Jessica Bollwahn at 6:42, but the Hillcats continued to control the paint with consistent scoring from Melton and others.

RSU further solidified its advantage with a series of successful plays in the latter half of the quarter. Jones contributed with a fast-break layup at 3:38, and Arens added to the tally with consecutive layups. Bailey Layman's two free throws with 27 seconds remaining expanded their lead, as RSU closed the quarter leading 57–39.

The Hillcats maintained their momentum in the fourth quarter, starting with a fast-break layup by McDaniel-Deatherage at the 7:47 mark, pushing their lead further. A pivotal three-pointer from Pinedo, assisted by Melton, extended the advantage to 62–39. Despite turnovers, RSU capitalized on defensive rebounds to prevent the Rangers from closing the gap.

Shanks added a key three-pointer with 2:48 remaining, and Arens contributed with two free throws to keep the pressure on Regis. Defensive efforts were highlighted by a block from Arens and critical rebounds by Shanks, limiting the Rangers' scoring opportunities. RSU finished the quarter leading 68–48, securing the win with a strong all-around performance.

Casaus recorded two steals and contributed eight points. Shanks nearly posted a double-double with nine points and 10 rebounds. Wiggins made an impact defensively with four blocks and added eight points. Jones tallied three steals while scoring six points.

Bollwahn stood out for the Rangers with 11 rebounds and four steals, showcasing her defensive impact. Kaylin Venick added 12 points and contributed two steals, maintaining pressure on the opposition. Emily Allison was notable for her defensive presence with two blocks, while Mary Crossland scored 10 points and recorded two steals in the contest.

RSU will return to action tomorrow at 6:30 p.m. CT against Colorado Mines.