SIOUX FALLS, S.D.  --- A slow start for the South Dakota School of Mines men's basketball team put the Hardrockers behind the 8-ball Friday night during the first night of the East West Challenge as SD Mines fell to Augustana University, 70-51, at the Sanford Pentagon in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

The Vikings jumped out to an early 25-9 edge and led at the half, 39-20. The 'Rockers were able to shake off the sluggish start in the second half as both team posted 31 points over the final 20 minutes, but the 'Rockers couldn't recover from the first half deficit.

SD Mines shot 39.6 percent for the game hitting 19-48 from the field. The converted just 4-20 from three-point range and converted 9-14 from the free throw line. Augustana made good on 25-61 from the field and hit 8-20 from the three-point line. They tacked on 12-15 from the foul line and pulled down 38 rebounds to 28 for the 'Rockers.

Mitchell Sueker led the way for SD Mines with 15 points, six rebounds, two steals, two assists and one block. Troy Brady, Allec Williams and Logan Elers each posted eight points in the game.