RAPID CITY, S.D. – The South Dakota School of Mines men's basketball team will play host to Western State Colorado University Friday night during a Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference matchup at the King Center in Rapid City, S.D.

With three games remaining in the regular season, Western men's basketball is looking for a crucial win to keep themselves relevant in the RMAC standings. The Hardrockers are looking to spoil those chances. As it stands, Western sits tenth in the conference – a mere one game out from making the conference tournament.

With a win against South Dakota Mines, Western puts themselves in a potential tie with UCCS and New Mexico Highlands. On the season, Western is 1-1 with UCCS and 0-1 vs. New Mexico Highlands. The Hardrockers will not be making the post season this year.

Western (10-15, 8-11 RMAC) hits the road following a 98-87 win over RMAC rival Adams State. Led by the senior duo, and RMAC Top 10 scorers, Ben Beauchamp and Collin Smith Western's potent offensive presence will be key on the road.

The Mountaineers 82.1 points per game is the second-highest tally in the RMAC. Additionally, Western continues to make nearly 10 three-point baskets per game fueling their offense.

Western narrowly defeated SD Mines (7-17, 4-15 RMAC) earlier this season during a January match-up in Gunnison, Colo., the Mountaineers outlasted the Hardrockers, 87-75.

SD Mines enters Friday on a three-game skid, dropping bouts to Colorado School of Mines and Black Hills State last week. As one of the better defensive teams in the conference, the 'Rockers only allow 73.8 points per game. While limiting points, the 'Rockers also keep opponents off the glass only allowing a 31 rebounds against average this season.

Hardrocker sophomore Logan Elers continues to lead the team in scoring (13.4 ppg) and rebounding (5.6 rpg). Freshman Troy Brady is also doing a fine job this season averaging 12.1 markers per game while sophomore Jake Heath is dishing in just under 10 points a game.

Friday is also Senior Night at the King Center as the Hardrockers will honor Brian Orr and Jordan Rood who will be playing their final games in Goodell Gymnasium. The game will be broadcast live at: https://portal.stretchinternet.com/sdsmt/ and is set to tipoff at 7:30 p.m. (MST).