TAHLEQUAH, Okla.  -- Pittsburg State used a pivotal run spanning late in the second and early in the third quarter to pull away from Northeastern State for a 67-58 victory Saturday at the NSU Event Center.

The RiverHawks led for more than 24 minutes and built an early advantage, sparked by a balanced offensive attack and stout defense. Northeastern State jumped out in front and held control for much of the first half, but a 16-3 surge by the Gorillas over a 6:32 stretch that bridged the second and third quarters flipped the momentum. 

Gabrielle Tilley led NSU with a career-high 17 points, connecting inside and at the foul line, and was one of two RiverHawks in double figures. Annaston Brown added 11 points, and McKenzie Smith contributed 14. Northeastern State shot just 1 of 11 from 3-point range and missed nine straight attempts from behind the arc after its lone first-quarter make. 

Pittsburg State was paced by Marin Adams with 20 points and Harper Schreiner with 18. The Gorillas executed efficiently down the stretch, hitting 4 of 12 from long range and converting 27 of 29 free throws to seal the win. 

Northeastern State took advantage of early defensive stops and looked poised until the Gorillas' decisive run. After that burst, Pittsburg State stretched its lead and held firm despite late NSU pushes.

The RiverHawks (10-3, 2-2 MIAA) will look to bounce back quickly when they travel to face Central Oklahoma on Wednesday. Tipoff is scheduled for 5:30 p.m.