PITTSBURG, Kan. — Rogers State women's basketball (2-7, 0-2 MIAA) fell to Pittsburg State (6-1, 2-0 MIAA) 73-51 at John Lance Arena on Saturday. 

RSU led by two points at the end of the first quarter but struggled offensively in the second half, scoring only 22 points. The Gorillas capitalized with a strong performance in the paint, outscoring the Hillcats 44-26, and took control with a decisive 21-8 third quarter.

RSU opened the first quarter with a strong defensive presence, highlighted by Cheyan McDaniel-Deatherage's early block. Jaiana Wiggins initiated the scoring with a layup, setting the tone for the Cats'. Kate Melton contributed significantly by converting all eight of her free throw attempts during the period, helping RSU build an 8–0 lead.

Despite a late push from Pittsburg State, which included a layup by Marin Adams and a steal-turned-layup from Adams again, the Hillcats maintained their advantage. Defensive stops, including a block by Michelle Arens in the final seconds, helped close the quarter with RSU leading 14–12.

RSU capitalized on key plays in the second quarter to maintain a competitive edge against the Gorillas. The quarter began with a significant defensive stop by Wiggins, who blocked a layup attempt and then secured the defensive rebound, which paved the way for Ataya Casaus to score a jumper, leveling the score at 16. McDaniel-Deatherage contributed significantly by converting a layup at 5:25, keeping the score tied at 20.

As the quarter progressed, the Hillcats gained momentum with Bailey Layman hitting a crucial 3-pointer at 2:23, assisted by Casaus, which pushed the team ahead 27–25. Casaus further extended the lead with a fast-break layup following her steal at 1:21. Although Pittsburg State managed to add a point with a free throw, RSU concluded the quarter ahead, 29–26, sustaining a narrow lead going into halftime.

RSU started the third quarter with a quick scoring action as McDaniel-Deatherage converted a layup off an assist from Melton, briefly reclaiming the lead. Melton remained active defensively with two steals, leading to a fast-break layup that extended the lead to 33-30. However, as the quarter progressed, turnovers mounted, and defensive rebounds became challenging, enabling the Gorillas to capitalize and shift momentum.

Despite efforts to maintain a narrow lead, RSU struggled offensively, missing several attempts and failing to score from beyond the arc. Pittsburg State took advantage of this scoring drought, going on a run and finishing the quarter strongly. By the end of the third, Pittsburg State had outscored RSU 21-8, establishing a 47-37 advantage heading into the final quarter.

The Hillcats began the fourth quarter looking for a comeback, with Destiny Jones contributing a layup at 8:07 to cut into the Gorillas' lead. Melton added a three-pointer at 4:04, showcasing RSU's efforts to stay competitive. Despite these efforts, Pittsburg State maintained control, capitalizing on free throws and offensive rebounds to steadily extend its lead.

As the quarter progressed, the Hillcats created opportunities with steals by Samantha Shanks and Casaus, but Pittsburg State's defensive rebounding and effective free-throw shooting kept them ahead. The quarter closed with Pittsburg State sealing their advantage at the free-throw line, resulting in a final score of 73-51 in favor of the home team.

Melton led RSU with 14 points, finishing with five rebounds and two steals. Casaus added eight points and matched Melton with two steals, contributing five rebounds as well. McDaniel-Deatherage collected eight rebounds and posted four points, providing a strong presence on the boards. Wiggins scored six points and recorded three assists before fouling out.

RSU women's basketball will host Central Oklahoma on Thursday, Dec. 11, at 5:30 p.m. inside the Claremore Expo Center.