EMPORIA, Kan. -- Northeastern State could not overcome a 21-point deficit as Emporia State secured a 75-66 victory in Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Association play on Thursday night at White Auditorium.

The RiverHawks (11-6, 5-3 MIAA) fought back in the second half but had a 10-for-31 performance in the opening 20 minutes.  Ethan Blackmon paced the NSU with 15 points and six rebounds, while Keon Edwards contributed 12 points and four boards. Trey Phipps added nine points and a team-high eight rebounds.

Thursday's turning point was the final eight minutes of the first half where ESU embarked on a 25-10 run on the RiverHawks and took a 19-point lead into the half. 

The Hornets (5-13, 2-7 MIAA) used a balanced offensive attack, with Karyiek Dixon leading the way with a double-double of 19 points and 10 rebounds. Arhman Lewis added 15 points and five assists, while Chris Harris chipped in with 11 points and four rebounds.

Emporia State out-rebounded Northeastern State 41-37 and held the RiverHawks to 22.7% shooting from beyond the arc.  

The RiverHawks will look to bounce back in their next matchup at Newman on Saturday.