Rapid City, SD – The Westminster men's basketball team came up short in RMAC action on Saturday afternoon, falling 64-53 to South Dakota Mines. Despite a competitive first half and a strong showing from Simon Akena, the Griffins couldn't sustain their offensive rhythm in the second half, dropping to 9-9 overall and 3-7 in RMAC play.
The game was tightly contested in the first half, with the Griffins trailing by just three points at halftime (30-27). However, South Dakota Mines pulled away in the second half behind efficient shooting and dominance at the free-throw line.
Westminster Leaders:
Westminster struggled from beyond the arc, shooting 18.2% (2-11) from three-point range, and unable to find consistency at the free-throw line, going 11-17 (64.7%).
South Dakota Mines Leaders:
- Tre Dowdell: 23 points, 10-11 FT, 3 rebounds
- Guido Wanschelbaum: 12 points, 7 rebounds, 5-7 FG
The Hardrockers were fueled by Dowdell's 23-point performance and ability to convert at the free-throw line, hitting 19 of 22 attempts (86.4%).
Key Team Stats:
- Field Goal Percentage: Westminster 37.7%, South Dakota Mines 44.7%
- Three-Point Shooting: Westminster 18.2%, South Dakota Mines 37.5%
- Free Throws: Westminster 64.7% (11-17), South Dakota Mines 86.4% (19-22)
- Rebounds: Westminster 22, South Dakota Mines 27
Up Next:
The Griffins will look to rebound on Thursday, January 30, when they travel to Lakewood, CO, to take on Colorado Christian University. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:00 PM, where fans can watch live on the RMAC Network.
