ARKADELPHIA, Ark. - In a game that went back and forth with nine ties and eight lead changes, Rogers State women's basketball (4-3) picked up a thrilling 73-68 overtime road win at Henderson State (2-4) on Saturday.
 
"It's good to get a win on the road, especially in overtime," said Head Coach Heather Davis. "We didn't take care of the ball in the second half, and we have to continue to try and get better in that department. But I am so proud of freshman Kate Melton for stepping up and hitting the free throws when we needed them late."
 
Melton not only was clutch from the charity stripe, going 5-6, but she also led the team in scoring with 15 points. Additionally, she pulled down six boards and dished out five assists. Ella Hafer earned her second double-double of the season, snagging 15 rebounds and putting up 12 points. Cheyan McDaniel and Bailey Layman both added 12 points and four rebounds apiece. Jaiana Wiggins was a strong defensive help, as she contributed seven rebounds, three steals and a block.
 
Both teams went stride for stride in the first quarter, but RSU came out in front 16-15. The Hillcat offense came alive in the second quarter, scoring 21 points. However, HSU managed to tie the game at 30 with 2:49 left in the half, but RSU closed out the period on a 7-2 run to carry a 37-32 lead into halftime. 
 
In the third quarter, RSU maintained its advantage despite a few turnovers. Luckily, the Reddies struggled to find the basket, as the Hillcats held a 47-45 lead going into the fourth quarter. RSU built out a two-possession lead with 25 seconds to play, but HSU got hot down the stretch and tied the game at 61 with a buzzer-beating jump shot.
 
Playing in their first overtime game since Jan. 2, 2023, when the Hillcats beat Newman 78-68 in double overtime, RSU took control of the game, with Melton making four free throws, and scoring six of her 13 points. McDaniel and Layman were both fouled with less than 15 seconds to play and put the game on ice as they each made their pairs of charity shots to secure the 73-68 victory.
 
The Hillcats return to the floor on Wednesday, Dec. 4th as open MIAA play hosting Missouri Southern. Tipoff is set for 5:30 p.m. inside the Claremore Expo Center.