EDMOND -- Northeastern State rallied late to defeat Central Oklahoma 68-60 on Saturday at Hamilton Field House, and swept the season series over the Bronchos for the second consecutive season.
Trailing by 11 points entering the fourth quarter, the RiverHawks (11-17, 7-12 MIAA) outscored the Bronchos 24-5 in the final 10 minutes to secure the comeback victory.
Courtney Lee led the charge for Northeastern State with a double-double, posting 13 points, 12 rebounds, and five blocks.
Deyanna Douglas was a key contributor with 16 points and two blocks, while
Alex Hill added 15 points and four rebounds. Northeastern State's defense was pivotal, holding Central Oklahoma to just five points in the fourth quarter and forcing 14 turnovers.
The Bronchos (8-20, 7-12 MIAA) were led by Jordyn Turner and Korie Allensworth, who scored 14 points each. Central Oklahoma's shooting struggles were evident as they went 20-for-62 (32%) from the field and 7-for-25 (28%) from beyond the arc.
Northeastern State's inside presence made a difference, outscoring the Bronchos 34-18 in the paint. The RiverHawks also capitalized on their opportunities at the line, converting 17 of 21 free throws.
The win wasn't enough for the RiverHawks to qualify for the MIAA Tournament who finished tied with UCO in the association standings for tenth place. Northeastern State who swept the season series over the Bronchos was bounced out due to the KPI rankings. Instead, the final seed went to Emporia State who finished with two fewer MIAA wins and lost 61-56 to NSU earlier in the season claimed the tenth seed. Â