SALT LAKE CITY – Westminster men's basketball dropped a close RMAC contest Saturday afternoon, falling 75–70 to South Dakota Mines at Behnken Field House.

The Griffins battled throughout a back-and-forth matchup that featured 14 lead changes and five ties, but South Dakota Mines converted key free throws late to hold off Westminster's final push.

Game Breakdown

First Half

South Dakota Mines carried a 37–31 lead into halftime, shooting 32.35% (11–34) from the field while converting 11–12 (91.7%) at the free-throw line. Westminster shot 39.39% (13–33) in the opening half and stayed within striking distance behind balanced scoring and work on the glass.

Second Half

The Griffins outscored South Dakota Mines 39–38 after the break and cut the deficit to single digits multiple times, but the visitors answered at the line late. Westminster shot 40.0% (14–35) in the second half and went 7–8 (87.5%) from the free-throw line.

Individual Performances

Jake Nadauld led Westminster with 24 points, shooting 7–14 from the field and 3–6 from three, while adding 6 rebounds, 7 assists, and 2 steals.
Michael Fraizer scored 10 points on 4–5 shooting, and Jack Jamele followed with 9 points. Cole Kadoguchi added 7 points and 4 assists, while Boston Painter pulled down a team-high 10 rebounds.

Team Numbers

Westminster finished the game shooting 39.7% (27–68) from the field and 29.2% (7–24) from three. The Griffins recorded 16 assists, lost the rebounding battle 41–43, and scored 40 points in the paint, while South Dakota Mines went 26–32 at the free-throw line.

Big Picture

The loss moves Westminster to 7–11 overall and 2–8 in RMAC play. The Griffins will look to regroup as conference action continues at home next week.