CLAREMORE, Okla. - The East Central University women's basketball team traveled to Claremore, Oklahoma, on Wednesday to face the Rogers State University Hillcats in a MIAA/GAC non-conference matchup. While dealing with injuries to key players, the Tigers fought hard but ultimately fell short.

The Tigers faced early challenges containing the Hillcats' offense, trailing by nine points after the first quarter. However, constant pressure driving to the basket and making successful layups kept the contest within reach. Katie Edelen shone in the second quarter, contributing seven points, including a three-pointer, but Rogers State maintained their advantage heading into halftime.

Following the break, the Tigers came out with an energized effort, scoring 18 points in the third quarter while holding the Hillcats to just nine. This defensive surge and offensive spark ignited hopes of a late-game comeback.

The final quarter was a hard-fought battle, with ECU putting up 14 points to Rogers State's 15. Despite their impressive second-half turnaround, the early deficit was too much for the Tigers to overcome, as the Hillcats held on to secure the ball game.

Katie Edelen led the Tigers' offense scoring a game-high 20 points while adding four rebounds and two assists. Chloe Malone contributed a well-rounded effort with nine points, six rebounds, and four assists. Claira Dannefer anchored the defense, pulling down a team-high seven rebounds, and Makenzy Herman made her mark from beyond the arc, going 2-for-3 for six points with both triples connecting in the turnaround third quarter.

The Tigers will stay on the road this week, traveling to Emporia, KS, to take on Emporia State University on Friday, November 22.