CLAREMORE, Okla. — Rogers State women's basketball (8-12, 5-6 MIAA) overcame an early deficit to defeat Emporia State (10-10, 4-7 MIAA), 70–57, at the Claremore Expo Center. 

RSU overcame a first-quarter deficit, propelled by a 26-point third quarter. The Hillcats capitalized on the Lady Hornets' 19 turnovers, converting them into 23 points, while maintaining a 30-28 edge in points in the paint.

The first quarter began with the Hillcats struggling to contain Emporia's early scoring, as the visitors quickly established a lead. Ella Hafer contributed a layup at the 8:14 mark, assisted by Samantha Shanks, to put RSU on the board. Despite this effort, the Lady Hornets capitalized on fast-breaking opportunities and efficient shooting to maintain their advantage. RSU found some momentum late in the quarter with Bailey Layman and Cheyan McDaniel-Deatherage each draining a 3-pointer, the latter coming with just three seconds left on the clock. However, Emporia State's consistent offensive execution kept the Hillcats trailing. The quarter closed with the Lady Hornets leading 21–10.

RSU opened the second quarter with a defensive stand, forcing Emporia into multiple turnovers while Layman capitalized on a fast break layup. Shanks contributed with a fast break layup as well, narrowing the score difference. Howeverm Emporia maintained its lead with efficient shooting, including a crucial 3-pointer by Katiya Casey. RSU managed to stay competitive through key free throws by Layman and another layup by Hafer. The quarter ended with both teams scoring 16 points each, keeping Emporia's lead at 37-26.

Rogers State started the third quarter by capitalizing on the Lady Hornets' turnovers, with Hafer's steal leading to a Destiny Jones layup. This initial momentum was maintained as the Hillcats executed a strategic scoring run, highlighted by Shanks and McDaniel-Deatherage's crucial 3-pointers, which leveled the score at 48–48. In the latter part of the quarter, RSU took control, with McDaniel adding another 3-pointer to give the team the lead. Bailey Braxton's layup and Shanks' free throws in the closing seconds secured the advantage. The Hillcats ended the quarter ahead, 54–48, extending their lead while holding Emporia to 11 points in the quarter.

RSU capitalized on strong defense and efficient scoring in the fourth quarter, extending its lead with a decisive stretch. Hafer spearheaded the attack, contributing consistently with a layup and a 3-pointer, supported by assists from Ataya Casaus. Shanks was pivotal on both ends, securing defensive stops and adding crucial points in the paint. RSU's defense forced four turnovers, with Shanks adding a key steal early in the quarter. The team's fast-break opportunities resulted in six points, showcasing their transition efficiency. By limiting the Lady Hornets to four baskets, the Hillcats maintained control and closed the game with a 70–57 victory.

Hafer led the team with a season-best 21 points, converting 9 of 20 field goals and adding two steals. Layman contributed 14 points, successfully making six out of seven free throws and adding two steals. Casaus recorded seven assists and three steals, contributing both defensively and offensively. Shanks added 12 points and seven rebounds, while also posting seven assists and two steals.

Macey Gandee led the Lady Hornets with 15 points on 7-for-9 shooting, adding 10 rebounds for a double-double. Makenzie McDaniel contributed defensively with two blocks. Vanessa Coleman provided support with eight points and eight rebounds. Elizabeth Tjaden added eight points and four assists, enhancing the team's overall performance.

RSU will return to the Expo on Saturday at 2 p.m. for the Hall of Fame game against Newman.