RAPID CITY, S.D. – The MSU Denver women's basketball team returned to the win column Thursday night after defeating the South Dakota Mines Hardrockers on the road 82-77. MSU Denver jumped out to an early lead with a strong first quarter, outscoring South Dakota Mines 24-13. Despite a late surge by the Hardrockers in the fourth quarter, the Roadrunners held firm to secure the victory.
 
Nevaeh Millard led MSU Denver with 18 points on 8-of-15 shooting, providing a steady offensive presence throughout the game. Mikylah Espinosa contributed an all-around performance with 12 points, 8 assists, and 7 rebounds, while Brooklynn Jones came off the bench to hit six three-pointers and tally a career-high 18 points in just 19 minutes of action. Brianna Sealy added 12 points and four rebounds, helping the Roadrunners capitalize on their offensive opportunities.
 
The Roadrunners shot an efficient 48.5% from the field and 34.8% from beyond the arc, while the Hardrockers managed 43.1% shooting overall. Despite dominating the boards with a 48-23 rebounding advantage and scoring 24 second-chance points, South Dakota Mines was hampered by 21 turnovers, which the Roadrunners were able to convert into 19 points.
 
Although the Hardrockers made a strong push in the fourth quarter, cutting the deficit to as little as five points, MSU Denver's timely scoring and clutch free-throw shooting in the final moments proved decisive.
 
The Roadrunners (2-3 in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference, 3-10 overall), will take on Black Hills State on the road on Saturday, January 11 at 1 p.m. as they wrap up their road trip in South Dakota.