DENVER — MSU Denver returned to the floor for the first time since the holiday break on Thursday night but fell 82–68 to South Dakota Mines in an RMAC matchup at the Auraria Events Center. The Roadrunners move to 4-9 overall and 2-3 in conference play.
The game opened with a competitive first quarter as MSU Denver set the tone defensively and played with energy coming out of the break.
Roadrunners held a slight 17–14 advantage after one, fueled by early shot-making from Mikylah Espinosa and balanced contributions on both ends of the floor.
Momentum shifted in the second quarter, however, as South Dakota Mines caught fire offensively. The Hardrockers used efficient shooting and transition opportunities to go on a decisive run, outscoring MSU Denver 33–12 in the period. Despite steady effort and trips to the free-throw line, the Roadrunners struggled to slow the surge and went into halftime trailing 47–29.
MSU Denver responded with improved play after the break, showing defensive pressure and better ball movement in the third quarter.
Espinosa sparked the offense with aggressive drives and steals, while Sarah Nocke added a few baskets as the Roadrunners attempted to chip away at the deficit, but South Dakota Mines continued to answer with key shots to maintain control heading into the final period.
In the fourth quarter, MSU Denver continued to compete and closed the gap with a 20-point frame, highlighted by strong bench minutes and second-chance opportunities.
Keira Mitchell made an immediate impact in her MSU Denver debut, pulling down nine rebounds and recording two blocks in just 19 minutes, providing energy and presence in the paint. Despite the late push, the Roadrunners were unable to overcome the second-quarter swing.
Espinosa led MSU Denver with 18 points and five steals, setting the tone defensively and offensively throughout the night. Nocke finished with 11 points to give the Roadrunners two players in double figures, while Mitchell's debut performance stood out on the glass and defensively.
The Roadrunners will look to bounce back quickly, returning to RMAC action on Saturday at 1 p.m. when they host Black Hills State in another conference showdown.
