KEARNEY, Neb. – A cold shooting night and a tough second quarter proved costly for Northeastern State in a 79-50 loss to Nebraska-Kearney on Saturday at the Health & Sports Center.

The RiverHawks (10-12, 6-7 MIAA) started strong, leading by as many as seven points in the first quarter. However, the Lopers (17-5, 10-3 MIAA) took control in the second, outscoring NSU 27-7 to seize a 47-28 halftime advantage.

Deyanna Douglas paced Northeastern State with 15 points and four rebounds, while Annaston Brown added 10 points. The RiverHawks struggled from the field, shooting 27.3% (15-of-55), including just 6-of-31 (19.4%) from three-point range.

Nebraska-Kearney capitalized on NSU's shooting woes and dominated inside, outscoring the RiverHawks 38-18 in the paint. The Lopers also held a commanding 46-24 rebounding advantage and forced 12 turnovers.

UNK's Meg Burns had 12 points, knocking down four three-pointers. Jillian Aschoff was an assist short of a triple-double with 11 points, 14 rebounds, and nine assists, while Samantha Moore chipped in 13 points.

Despite the slow offensive night, NSU forced eight steals and hit 77.8% (14-of-18) from the free-throw line.

Northeastern State will look to bounce back at home on Thursday when it faces Central Missouri at the NSU Event Center.