CLAREMORE, Okla. — Rogers State men's basketball (3-1) edged Southern Arkansas (1-2) 96-88 at the Claremore Expo Center on Saturday. The Hillcats have now reeled off three straight after overcoming an early defict against SAU.

The Hillcats overcame a two-point halftime deficit with a strong second half, outscoring the Muleriders 54-44. The Cats' capitalized on Southern Arkansas's 11 turnovers, converting them into 10 points, while also making 28 free throws on 36 attempts to secure the win.

The first half commenced with RSU establishing an early lead, highlighted by Tim Jordan Jr.'s 3-pointer at 19:44. The team's ball movement was effective, resulting in 10 assists during the half. Despite a strong start, the Hillcats faced challenges as the Muleriders capitalized on turnovers to shift momentum mid-half. Southern Arkansas's fast-break points contributed to their lead.

RSU responded with a series of defensive stops, narrowing the gap late in the half. Caden Fry's layup at 1:10 brought RSU within one point. The half concluded with a close score, Southern Ark. leading 44–42.

Rogers State seized momentum early in the second half with Andrew Mason's layup, tying the game. Fry assisted on a 3-pointer by Benard Omooria, which ignited a surge that saw the Hillcats take control. Omooria's back-to-back 3-pointers further extended the lead, forcing the Muleriders into a timeout.

The Hillcats continued to capitalize on their offensive rhythm, with Jordan Jr. converting a layup and a free throw, maintaining the lead. Despite Southern Arkansas's attempts to close the gap, highlighted by Troy'reon Ramos's efforts, RSU maintained composure. A timely 3-pointer by Damondre McKnight extended their advantage.

In the latter part of the half, RSU's defense tightened, with Mason blocking a layup attempt, and Jabryn Anderson contributing crucial free throws. The half concluded with RSU maintaining a solid lead, ending 96-88 in favor of the home team.

Anderson led with 20 points (tied career high), converting all eight of his free throws and adding five assists. Omooria scored 16 points, including four 3-pointers, and collected four rebounds. Mason contributed 17 points and blocked two shots while converting 9 of 13 free throws. Fry posted 14 points and dished out a team-high eight assists.

Greg Moore Jr. led the Muleriders with 22 points, hitting 4 of 9 from beyond the arc and converting 8 of 10 free throws. Ramos contributed 21 points, shooting 8 of 12 from the field, alongside five assists and two steals. Jakourion Key added 12 points and secured five rebounds, while also recording a block and a steal.

RSU will return to action on Nov. 28-29 in Bethany for the SNU Conference Challenge.