CLAREMORE, Okla. – The Rogers State women's basketball team sent its seniors with a dominating 71-45 win over Central Christian on Saturday (Feb. 11) on Senior Day at the Claremore Expo Center.
 
The contest was the final home game for six RSU seniors: Natasha Kindred, Courtney Smith, Jackie Bueno, Rachel Block, Danielle Carr and Heather Roberts. Five of the seniors started the game. Block was the lone senior to not appear on senior day due to injury. All five of the senior starters scored with Kindred leading the way with 10 points.
 
RSU used an impressive second period to take a 12-8 edge and push it to 34-17 at halftime. In the second, the navy and red shot 69.2 percent (9-13) to build the 17-point advantage.
 
The Cats continued their strong play in the third period to build a 56-23 lead after three periods. CCU hit five 3s in the final period to slightly cut into the deficit as the navy and red went on to win, 71-45.
 
Lindsey Byfield came off the bench to score a game-high 11 points. She went 4-for-5 shooting for the game. A total of 11 Hillcats scored in the win. Madison Dearmin totaled seven rebounds in only 11 minutes.
 
For the game, RSU shot 46.6 percent (27-58) from the field. The Cats hit 11 3-pointers, including three from Carr.
 
Strong defense from the Hillcats held CCC to 25.4 percent (15-59) shooting. Kelsey Grimaldo scored a game-high 19 points, and Abbie Banks added 18 points. 
 
All six seniors had their moment with each being removed late in the contest to a load ovation from the fans in attendance at the Claremore Expo Center. The six seniors were recognized as the conclusion of the game.
 
The Hillcats (8-16) end the regular season with three road contests. The roadtrip starts with Oklahoma Christian on Thursday (Feb. 16) in Oklahoma City, Okla. Tipoff is set for 5:30 p.m. from the Eagles' Nest. Coverage is available on 91.3 FM and the Hillcat Network at www.rsuhillcats.com/live.