BETHANY, Okla. — Rogers State men's basketball (4-2) dropped a back-and-forth heart breaker to No. 7  Southern Nazarene (6-0), 67-65, in a tense non-conference match up at Sawyer Center on Saturday.

The game was tightly contested, featuring 14 ties and 25 lead changes. The Hillcats managed a strong presence in the paint with 40 points, but the Crimson Storm edged ahead in the final minutes, capitalizing on 11 steals to secure the victory.

Rogers State began the first half with a strong start, highlighted by Benard Omooria's early 3-pointer at 19:32, assisted by Caden Fry. The Hillcats consistently found success in the paint, with Tim Jordan Jr. contributing layups to maintain momentum. Despite turnovers, RSU managed to tie the game multiple times, with Andrew Mason providing key defensive rebounds and scoring crucial points.

As the half progressed, the Cats' continued to battle, with Jordan Jr. hitting a 3-pointer at 2:34 to reclaim the lead briefly. The Hillcats demonstrated effective defense with Mason recording a block and maintaining a strong presence under the basket. However, the Crimson Storm's late free throws tied the game at 27–27 to close the first half.

RSU began the second half strongly, taking the lead early with a 3-pointer by Omooria at 19:25, assisted by Mason. Jordan Jr. contributed with a layup at 18:22, maintaining a slight edge. A key moment came at 13:18 when Damondre McKnight tied the game with a 3-pointer, supported by Jabryn Anderson's assist.

The game remained close throughout the half, with both teams exchanging the lead. The Hillcats showcased resilience by tying the game at 65 with a layup by Stephon Thomas at 1:13. However, the Crimson Storm edged ahead with a late jumper at 0:04, ending the half with a 67–65 advantage.

Jordan Jr. led the team with 19 points, converting 8 of 11 field goal attempts. Omooria contributed 11 points, highlighted by three 3-pointers. Mason added 10 points and was a defensive presence with two blocks, collecting seven rebounds. McKnight recorded two steals and assisted twice, adding six points to the scoreboard.

Colby Henderson led the Crimson Storm with 14 points, hitting 6 of 8 field goals and collecting three steals. Bam Johnson contributed 13 points and matched Henderson with three steals, while also distributing three assists. Baron Bracey dominated the boards, grabbing 13 rebounds, including 10 defensive. Malik Edwards added 12 points on 6 of 12 shooting from the field.

RSU will open MIAA conference play next Thursday against the Missouri Southern Lions at 7:30 p.m. in Joplin.