CLAREMORE, Okla. — Damondre McKnight's career night highlighted Rogers State men's basketball's (13-7, 7-4 MIAA ) decisive 86-48 victory over Emporia State (7-13, 3-8 MIAA) on Thursday night at the Claremore Expo Center. 

RSU capitalized on 23 turnovers by the Hornets, converting them into 26 points while also outshooting their opponents with 12 three-pointers. The home team maintained control throughout, leading by 16 at halftime and extending the margin with a 50-point second half.

Rogers State opened the first half with a fast-paced offense, taking an early 2-0 lead through McKnight's layup at 18:51. RSU capitalized on strong inside play, scoring 12 points in the paint, and extended its lead with a solid run that included three-pointers from Stephon Thomas and Benard Omooria. RSU also benefited from solid defensive efforts, forcing the Hornets into 10 turnovers, which helped maintain momentum.

The half saw Rogers State's passing game in full display, producing 11 assists, including contributions from Jabryn Anderson, who facilitated several scoring opportunities. Despite the Hornets' attempts to close the gap, RSU ended the half with a commanding 36-20 lead.

The Hillcats displayed a strong offensive performance in the second half, outscoring the Hornets 50–28. Anderson set the pace early with a jumper, and Caden Fry's steal quickly shifted momentum. RSU efficiently converted turnovers into points, capitalizing on eight steals and committing only five turnovers themselves.

McKnight and Omooria fueled the scoring with successful three-pointers and layups. TheHillcat executed well in transition, contributing 14 fast-break points. The Hillcat would go on to close the game with an 86–48 advantage, with the final bucket coming from Thomas with a breakaway slam dunk. 

McKnight scored a career-high 22 points, converting 9 of 12 field goals, including four 3-pointers. Omooria added 17 points with five 3-pointers and recorded three assists. Anderson contributed with 10 assists and three steals, while Thomas posted 12 points and seven assists, also collecting three steals.

Treyvon Taylor led the Hornets with 16 points, converting 6 of 12 field goals and adding six rebounds. Chris Harris contributed significantly on defense, recording two blocks and two steals, while also dishing out six assists. Devin Conley added eight points, making 4 of 5 shots from the floor, and secured three rebounds. Andrew Pengel scored five points, including one three-pointer, and registered one steal.

Rogers State will return to action on Saturday at 4 p.m. against the Newman Jets for the Hall of Fame Game.