KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Northeastern State led for more than 35 minutes on Wednesday afternoon, but a late surge by Emporia State ended the RiverHawks' season with a 46-44 loss in the opening round of the MIAA Tournament at Municipal Auditorium.

The RiverHawks built an early advantage and controlled much of the contest, leading 15-8 after the first quarter and 22-17 at halftime. Northeastern State maintained the lead through the third quarter and carried a 34-29 edge into the final period.

Emporia State rallied in the fourth, outscoring Northeastern State 17-10. The Lady Hornets closed the game on a 12-2 run over the final minutes as the RiverHawks managed just two field goals in the fourth quarter and saw the lead slip away late.

Despite the loss, Northeastern State controlled much of the game, holding the lead for 34:17 while Emporia State led for just 4:18 and the game featured three lead changes.

Annaston Brown had seven points off the bench for NSU. McKenzie Smith added eight points, while Gabrielle Tilley finished with five points and Deyanna Douglas also contributed five.

Gracie Gilpin paced Emporia State with 14 points, while Macey Gandee added 11 points and nine rebounds for the Lady Hornets.

Both teams struggled offensively throughout the game. Northeastern State shot 27.3 percent from the field (15-of-55), while Emporia State finished at 27.6 percent (16-of-58).

The loss closes the season for the RiverHawks at 17-12 overall.