Arkansas State Advances to WNIT Fab Four

Red Wolves defeat Cleveland State to reach semifinals

Mar. 31, 2026 at 4:10pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the motion and energy of a women's basketball game, with sharp planes of red, blue, and yellow intersecting to create a dynamic, abstract composition.Arkansas State's WNIT quarterfinal victory showcases the team's dynamic style of play through a cubist lens.Cleveland Today

The Arkansas State Red Wolves women's basketball team defeated the Cleveland State Vikings 67-53 on Monday night to advance to the Fab Four of the Women's National Invitation Tournament (WNIT). Arkansas State, now 27-9 on the season, was led by Wynter Rogers' 20 points and strong defensive play that held Cleveland State to just 33% shooting.

Why it matters

This win marks the furthest postseason run in program history for Arkansas State, showcasing the growth and success of their women's basketball team. Reaching the WNIT Fab Four is a significant achievement that will raise the profile of the program and generate excitement among fans.

The details

Arkansas State jumped out to an early 19-7 lead after the first quarter and never relinquished control of the game. The Red Wolves shot 43% from the field and connected on 10 three-pointers, while holding Cleveland State to just 2-of-14 shooting from beyond the arc. Zyion Shannon added 14 points and 5 rebounds for Arkansas State, while Crislyn Rose dished out 6 assists and grabbed 7 rebounds.

  • The game was played on Monday, March 31, 2026 at First National Bank Arena.
  • Arkansas State will face Marshall in the WNIT Fab Four on Wednesday, April 2, 2026.

The players

Wynter Rogers

A standout player for the Arkansas State Red Wolves, scoring 20 points on 9-of-14 shooting with 5 rebounds and 2 assists in the win over Cleveland State.

Zyion Shannon

Contributed 14 points and 5 rebounds for the Arkansas State Red Wolves in their WNIT quarterfinal victory.

Crislyn Rose

Facilitated the Arkansas State offense with 6 assists and 7 rebounds in the win over Cleveland State.

Cleveland State Vikings

The opponent defeated by Arkansas State, held to just 33% shooting and 2-of-14 from three-point range.

Marshall

The next opponent for Arkansas State in the WNIT Fab Four on Wednesday, April 2.

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What they’re saying

“Reaching the Fab Four of the WNIT is a huge accomplishment for our program. The team has worked hard all season and deserves this opportunity.”

— Matt Daniel, Arkansas State Head Coach

What’s next

Arkansas State will face Marshall in the WNIT Fab Four on Wednesday, April 2, 2026 at 7 PM at First National Bank Arena.

The takeaway

Arkansas State's deep WNIT run demonstrates the continued growth and success of their women's basketball program, providing a boost of excitement and national exposure for the school and community.