CLAREMORE, Okla. — Rogers State women's basketball (3-8) fell to Haskell, 77-69, on Saturday at the Claremore Expo Center. 

RSU trailed after the first quarter and was unable to recover despite forcing 19 turnovers and scoring 20 points off those opportunities. Haskell capitalized on its accuracy at the free-throw line, converting 20 of 22 attempts to secure the victory.

Rogers State began the first quarter by capitalizing on fast breaks, with Jaiana Wiggins scoring early with a layup assisted by Samantha Shanks. Kate Melton added to the momentum with a three-pointer, as the team maintained a slight lead through the initial minutes. Assisted plays were a key component, as the Hillcats recorded six assists in the quarter.

Despite strong defensive efforts, including two blocks and a steal, the Cats faced challenges as Haskell found success in the paint and beyond the arc. Haskell's Ona Dauphinais hit multiple three-pointers, contributing to their lead. By the end of the quarter, Haskell led 23–15, although Bailey Layman closed with a three-pointer for the Cats to narrow the gap slightly.

The second quarter saw a challenging stretch for RSU, as Haskell began to widen the gap. Destiny Jones contributed early with a jumper and a subsequent free throw to keep the team within striking distance. Despite multiple defensive rebounds and steals, the Hillcats struggled from beyond the arc, missing all nine 3-point attempts, which limited their scoring opportunities.

Haskell capitalized on their chances in the paint, outscoring the Cats 8–4 in that area. The visitors also benefitted from efficient ball movement, assisting on six of their seven field goals. RSU managed to cut into the lead slightly with free throws from Layman late in the quarter, but Haskell closed with a fastbreak layup, ending the period with a 41–25 advantage.

The Hillcats initiated the third quarter with a strong offensive effort, highlighted by Ataya Casaus connecting on a three-pointer with an assist from Melton at 9:37, narrowing the gap. Shanks added momentum with another three-pointer shortly after, again assisted by Melton. The team pressed on by securing points off turnovers and fast breaks, notably with Shanks completing a layup following her own steal at 3:58.

Despite Haskell's balanced scoring response, RSU maintained pressure with consistent defensive stops, including four steals in the period, and effective rebounding, with Ella Hafer contributing significantly on the boards. The period concluded with the Hillcats outscoring Haskell 19-18, closing the gap to a 59-44 deficit heading into the final quarter.

RSU began the fourth quarter by capitalizing on Haskell's turnovers, with Layman contributing a key steal that led to fast-break opportunities. A defensive stand saw Haskell limited to just three field goals, while Jones and Casaus provided a scoring boost from the bench. Despite Haskell's attempts to close the gap with their free throws, the Hillcats' consistent pressure, including multiple steals and fast-break points, helped maintain momentum.

Layman's late 3-pointer, assisted by Melton, highlighted the offensive push as the Cats outscored Haskell 25-18 in the final quarter. The game concluded with RSU narrowing the deficit, ending the contest at 77-69.

Layman scored 15 points, including three 3-pointers, and recorded two steals. Shanks posted a double-double with 11 points and 10 rebounds, adding three steals. Casaus contributed 10 points, blocked two shots, and registered two steals. Melton dished out eight assists while making two field goals.

Ivy Fox led Haskell with 27 points, hitting 9 of 16 from the field and a perfect 8 of 8 from the free throw line. Dauphinais contributed 17 points, including three 3-pointers, and added six assists to the team's effort. Tierzah Penn added 15 points, also making three 3-pointers, and recorded three assists. Angela Astorga provided defensive support with two steals and six rebounds. Jayla Flient was a force on defense, registering three blocks in the game.

RSU will wrap up non-conference play against Oklahoma Christian on Dec. 20 at 1:30 p.m. at the Claremore Expo Center.