CLAREMORE, Okla. — Rogers State men's basketball (9-6, 3-3 MIAA) fell to Northeastern State University (9-6, 2-4 MIAA) 96-87 in a closely contested matchup at Claremore Expo Center.
RSU trailed by three at the half and struggled to overcome its deficit despite a 26-for-37 performance from the free-throw line. The RiverHawks capitalized on fast-break opportunities, outscoring RSU 27-14 in that category, to secure the victory.
Rogers State opened the first half with strong offensive efforts, with
Damondre McKnight scoring early to set the pace. Despite trailing, the Hillcats kept the game competitive, highlighted by
Caden Fry's layups and
Tim Jordan Jr.'s consistent scoring. Defensive plays, including steals by Jordan Jr. and
Benard Omooria, helped maintain pressure on Northeastern St.
As the half progressed, the RiverHawks managed to pull ahead with efficient shooting and fast breaks. RSU continued to fight back, with Jordan Jr. and Omooria contributing key points to narrow the gap. The half concluded with the Cats trailing closely at 42-39.
Rogers State began the second half with a defensive spark, as McKnight recorded two steals early on, leading to a layup that put the team ahead. Fry's layup and subsequent free throws helped maintain pressure, keeping the score close for much of the half.
Omooria's shooting from beyond the arc, including a pivotal 3-pointer at 7:20, briefly gave the Hillcats the lead. However, NSU responded with a series of successful possessions, capitalizing on turnovers to edge ahead.
As the half entered its final minutes, RSU fought to close the gap with timely layups by
Jabryn Anderson and a clutch 3-pointer by Fry at 0:30. Despite these efforts, the half concluded with the Cats' trailing 96–87, as the RiverHawks secured a lead with strong shooting down the stretch.
Fry posted a career-high 27 points on 10-of-14 shooting and contributed seven rebounds. Omooria scored a season-high 24 points, including four 3-pointers, and added eight free throws. Jordan Jr. recorded 13 points and collected six rebounds. McKnight tallied four steals to impact the game defensively.
Glenn led the RiverHawks with 32 points, hitting 11 of 14 shots, including two from beyond the arc. He added 13 rebounds, two blocks, and made 8 of 11 free throws. Reed Jr. contributed 16 points, converting all six of his free throw attempts and dishing out five assists, while also securing seven rebounds. Weber facilitated the offense with nine assists and added four points, alongside two steals and five rebounds. Neilson efficiently scored 12 points on 5 of 6 shooting and collected three rebounds. Tea added 14 points, making 7 of 8 free throws, and contributed three rebounds and one assist.
The Hillcats will return to play on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. against Pitt State.
