Rogers State opens its 2026-27 season Friday against Henderson State at the inaugural Tulsa Tip-Off Classic, then faces Texas A&M-Kingsville Saturday. After a program-best run to the MIAA Tournament championship game and an NCAA Tournament berth last season, the Hillcats are rebuilding around returning contributors and a large group of newcomers. Coach Justin Barkley says the early focus is helping a reshaped roster develop and reach its potential.

By the Numbers
  • RSU went 21-11 last season, earning its second straight 20-win campaign and an at-large NCAA Tournament bid.
  • The Hillcats return 7 players and add 4 transfers and 3 freshmen to a 14-player roster.
  • RSU was picked sixth in the MIAA preseason coaches’ poll with 111 points.
Yes, But

Last season’s postseason success raises expectations, but significant roster turnover means the Hillcats must establish new chemistry. Barkley also points to the MIAA’s demanding schedule as a challenge, with 22 league games and few easy matchups.

State of Play
  • RSU starts the season against Henderson State on Friday at 5 p.m. and Texas A&M-Kingsville on Saturday at 5 p.m.
  • Senior Tim Jordan Jr., a returning All-MIAA honoree, is among the players expected to anchor the team.
  • The Hillcats’ home opener is Nov. 18 against the University of the Ozarks; MIAA play begins Dec. 5 against Central Oklahoma.
What’s Next

The opening weekend offers an early test of how quickly the new roster can come together. RSU then continues nonconference play before beginning MIAA competition in December, with the conference tournament scheduled for March 4-7 in Kansas City.

Bottom Line

RSU has momentum from a historic season, but repeating that success will depend on turning roster turnover into a cohesive team—and doing so in a demanding conference.