CLAREMORE, Okla. — Junior Tim Jordan Jr. had a big night against his former team, as Rogers State men's basketball (17-8, 11-5 MIAA) secured a massive 70-61 victory over No. 25 Central Missouri (20-8, 11-5 MIAA) at the Claremore Expo Center.
 
RSU overcame a six-point halftime deficit by outscoring UCM 43-28 in the second half, aided by 21 free throws on 25 attempts, five three-pointers and a 35-26 advantage in total rebounds. The Mules connected on 10 three-pointers but were plagued by 10 turnovers. RSU improved to 10-1 at home with their second ranked in of the season inside the Expo.
 
The game opened with RSU taking an early lead on a layup by Caden Fry at 19:11, assisted by Jabryn Anderson. UCM quickly responded with a three-pointer from Lazerek Houston at 18:41, shifting the momentum their way. Despite RSU's efforts, including a three-pointer by Anderson at 16:52, the Mules went on a scoring surge with Carter Kaifes and AJ Lux hitting consecutive threes to extend their lead. The half concluded with UCM leading 33-27 after a series of free throws and defensive rebounds, capped by a three-pointer from Kaifes at the 1:21 mark.
 
The Mules started the second half with a three-pointer from Jevon Hill at 19:14, extending their lead. Kyran Tilley contributed significantly with a pair of successful free throws and a steal early in the half. However, RSU responded with a run led by Jordan Jr., who scored a layup and a three-pointer to narrow the gap. Damondre McKnight's three-pointer at 1:43 to put RSU up by five shifted the momentum strongly in favor of the Hillcats, which they maintained through the final minutes, eventually securing a 68-61 victory. RSU outscored UCM 43-28 in the half, capitalizing on efficient free-throw shooting and fast-break opportunities.
 
Jordan Jr. led RSU with 20 points, converting 10 of 13 free throws and recording two blocks. He finished 4-for-8 from the field, adding five rebounds and two assists. Anderson contributed 14 points, five assists and seven rebounds. McKnight added 13 points, sinking three three-pointers and securing two steals. Benard Omooria tallied 11 points and matched McKnight with two steals.
 
Tilley led the Mules with 15 points, connecting on two three-pointers, and added four assists and two steals. Kaifes contributed 12 points, highlighted by three three-pointers, and chipped in two assists. Hill recorded seven points, including a three-pointer, and added three rebounds and two steals. Jake Fritz contributed five points on perfect shooting from the field, with four assists and four rebounds.
 
RSU will return to the Claremore Expo with another big matchup against the No. 3 Washburn Ichabods on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. Seniors Jabryn Anderson, Marlo Fox, Caden Fry, Andrew Mason, Angus Ole and Benard Omooria will be recognized before tip-off.