CLAREMORE, Okla. — Hillcat men's basketball (17-9, 11-6 MIAA) fell to No. 3 Washburn (26-1, 16-1 MIAA) 81-64 on Senior Day Saturday at the Claremore Expo Center. RSU finished the season with a final home record of 10-2. 
 
Before the tip-off on Saturday, six seniors—Jabryn Anderson, Marlo Fox, Caden Fry, Andrew Mason, Angus Ole, and Benard Omooria—were recognized for their contributions to the men's basketball program. This group has played a significant role in the team's success, boasting a 73-44 record over the last four seasons. The Hillcats have qualified for the MIAA Tournament each year, including this year, as they secured their spot in the Kansas tournament set to take place from March 4-8, 2026, at the historic Municipal Auditorium.
 
Despite a strong bench performance that contributed 42 points, Rogers State was unable to overcome Washburn's dominance in the paint, where the Ichabods scored 42 points. RSU cut the deficit to within 10 in the second half with strong three-point shooting, but WU would find its rhythm down the stretch to claim the 17-point win.
 
RSU fell behind early as Washburn opened the game with a series of successful plays. However, the Hillcats found rhythm with Mason's three-pointer at 16:55, assisted by Anderson. Rogers State capitalized on fast breaks, highlighted by a dunk from Anderson at 5:44, keeping them within striking distance.
 
The Hillcats managed to narrow the lead with bench contributions, as Fry added a layup and free throw at 8:45. Jordan Jr. contributed with a late three-pointer at 1:59, assisted by Damondre McKnight, which further tightened the gap. Nevertheless, Washburn closed the half with a 40-28 lead.
 
In the second half, RSU sought to close the gap. Anderson initiated a quick response with a three-pointer, followed by a layup from Jordan Jr., but Washburn maintained its lead. Mason's fast-break three-pointer at 16:24 narrowed the margin, while Omooria added points in the paint. Despite these efforts, Washburn extended its advantage, leading 66-53 at the midpoint.
 
As the half progressed, Fry provided a spark with crucial points, helping to reduce the deficit. The Hillcats showed resilience with defensive stops, including blocks by Anderson and Mason. Mason's block at 2:13 tied Joey Saracco's school record with 47 career blocks.
 
The Ichabods' steady scoring late in the game kept the Hillcats at bay, as they claimed the 81-64 victory.
 
Fry led Rogers State with 19 points, shooting 8-of-10 from the field and collecting seven rebounds. Jordan Jr. added 15 points and went perfect from the free-throw line, converting all four attempts. Anderson posted six points, seven assists and two blocks, while Damondre McKnight recorded five assists and a steal.
 
Bryson Smith led Washburn with 26 points, shooting 7-of-15 from the field and converting 11 of 13 free throws, while also grabbing five rebounds and dishing out three assists. Dillon Claussen added 14 points on 7-of-11 shooting, recording six assists and four rebounds. Jeremiah Jones was a defensive standout with two blocks and two steals while contributing eight points and six rebounds. Marcus Glock added 12 points, hitting 5-of-7 from the field, including two three-pointers.
 
Rogers State will head to Tahlequah for a highly anticipated rematch against Northeastern State on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m.