TAHLEQUAH -- Northeastern State's offense struggled to find its rhythm in a 53-45 loss to Northwest Missouri State on Thursday night at the NSU Event Center.

The RiverHawks (10-15, 6-10 MIAA) were held to just four points in the second quarter, allowing the Bearcats (13-13, 6-10 MIAA) to build a lead they wouldn't relinquish.

Deyanna Douglas led NSU with 19 points and five rebounds, going 9-of-12 from the free-throw line. Gracy Shieldnight added nine points and six rebounds, while Annaston Brown chipped in seven points off the bench.

Northwest Missouri State's defense stifled NSU, limiting the RiverHawks to 28% shooting (14-of-50) and just three three-pointers. 

The game was tight early, with both teams trading baskets in the first quarter, ending in an 11-11 tie.  However, NSU did not connect on making a field goal in the second quarter as Northwest Missouri outscored them 18-4 to take a 29-15 halftime lead.

The RiverHawks fought back in the second half, outscoring the Bearcats 30-24, but the early deficit proved too much to overcome. NSU cut the lead to single digits in the fourth quarter, but Northwest Missouri responded with key defensive stops to hold on for the win.

Caely Kesten led the Bearcats with 13 points and eight rebounds, while Sadie Maas contributed 11 points and five rebounds.

Northeastern State will look to rebound on Saturday when it hosts Missouri Western at the NSU Event Center.