DENVER - MSU Denver couldn't maintain its early lead and struggled offensively in the second half, falling to South Dakota Mines 54-45 on Senior Day.
 
The Roadrunners started strong, leading 16-12 after the first quarter, but their offense cooled off, scoring just six points in the second quarter as the Hardrockers clawed back. Despite a competitive third quarter, MSU Denver was outscored 17-11 in the final frame as South Dakota Mines sealed the win.
 
Nevaeh Millard led MSU Denver with 15 points, knocking down two three-pointers, while Jackie Pippett contributed seven points and six rebounds. Mariana Silva Pereira and Stella Rollo each added six points for the Roadrunners.
 
For South Dakota Mines, Morning Grace Spotted Bear dominated the game with a double-double, tallying 21 points and 11 rebounds. Piper Bauer chipped in with 11 points, including three three-pointers, and Savea Mansfield controlled the boards with 10 rebounds while adding eight points.
 
Both teams struggled from beyond the arc, with MSU Denver shooting just 19% (4-of-21) from three-point range, while South Dakota Mines hit 20% (3-of-15). The Hardrockers, however, controlled the rebounding battle, out-rebounding MSU Denver 47-30 and securing 14 offensive boards that led to 13 second-chance points.

Prior to the start of the game, Stella Rollo, Jackie Pippett, and Mariana Silva Pereira were all honored for Senior Day. Rollo joined the Roadrunners at the start of the 2024-25 season, Pippett has been with the team since the 2023-24 season, and Silva Pereira has been a member of the program since the 2021-22 season.
 
MSU Denver (6-18 overall, 5-11 in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference) will play their final home game of the regular season on Tuesday, February 18 against Colorado School of Mines at 6 p.m.
 
Purchase your tickets now at RoadrunnersAthletics.com/Tickets.