BUFFALO, N.Y. (Interstat) — In a Mid-American Conference women’s basketball matchup defined by offensive efficiency and a standout individual duel, the Kent State Golden Flashes outlasted the Buffalo Bulls 84-74 on Saturday at Alumni Arena.

The game pivoted on a decisive third-quarter run by the Golden Flashes, who weathered a spectacular 34-point performance from Buffalo’s Aniya Rowe to secure the road victory. Kent State improved to 9-10 overall, while Buffalo fell to 2-17.

The most critical sequence of the contest unfolded late in the third quarter. After a layup by Buffalo’ Rowe cut Kent State’s lead to 44-43 with 6:43 remaining in the period, the Golden Flashes responded with a 9-0 surge to create essential separation. The run was fueled by interior scoring from Riley Rismiller and Anna Campanelli, along with a crucial 3-pointer from Campanelli just before the quarter buzzer, pushing the Kent State advantage to 55-46 entering the final frame. Buffalo would not get the deficit back to a single possession the rest of the way.

Kent State’s victory was anchored by superior shooting and composure at the free-throw line. The Golden Flashes shot 52.7% from the field, connecting on 29 of 55 attempts, and were a sharp 19 of 23 from the foul line. Buffalo, despite taking 12 more field goal attempts, shot 43.3% and struggled at the line, making only 7 of 14 free throws.

Mya Babbitt led Kent State with 23 points and seven rebounds, continuing her strong recent play. She was complemented by a dominant interior performance from Riley Rismiller, who scored 25 points on efficient shooting, and a vital all-around effort from Anna Campanelli, who added 19 points and six rebounds.

Buffalo’s effort was spearheaded almost entirely by guard Aniya Rowe. The Geneva, New York, native played 40 minutes and poured in 34 points on 13-of-29 shooting, including five 3-pointers, while adding six rebounds and five assists. No other Bull scored in double figures until Ella Corry’s late basket gave her 10 points. Buffalo’s defense forced 16 Kent State turnovers and blocked eight shots but could not overcome its own 12 turnovers and the shooting disparity.

Kent State’s offense operated with notable precision, scoring 84 points on 73 possessions for an offensive rating of 115.2. Buffalo managed 74 points on 74 possessions, a rating of 100.5. The Golden Flashes also held a narrow 42-40 edge in points in the paint, countering Buffalo’s slight 18-13 advantage in points off turnovers.

Dionna Gray facilitated the Kent State attack with nine assists, though she committed seven turnovers. For Buffalo, Rowe’s backcourt partner Paula Lopez had a difficult shooting afternoon but contributed five assists and three steals.

The win marks Kent State’s third in its last four games as it builds momentum in conference play. Buffalo, despite the loss, showed resilience behind Rowe’s career-best outing but continues to search for consistency.

Kent State travels to face Toledo on Wednesday. Buffalo will host Eastern Michigan the same night.