RAPID CITY, S.D. – With three games remaining in the regular season, Western men's basketball hits the road to South Dakota School of Mines & Technology looking for a crucial win. As it stands, Western sits tenth in the Rocky Mountain Athletic 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 versus New Mexico Highlands. Following Friday's game at South Dakota Mines, Western heads to Las Vegas, New Mexico for a match-up with New Mexico Highlands on Tuesday, February 20^th.

Western (10-15, 8-11 RMAC) hits the road following a 98-87 win over RMAC rival Adams State. With momentum and senior leadership Western heads to Rapid City, S.D. Led by the senior duo, and RMAC top-ten 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 has already beaten South Dakota School of Mines & Technology (7-17, 4-15 RMAC) once this season. In a January match-up in Paul Wright Gym, the Mountaineers took down the Hardrockers 87-75.

South Dakota Mines enters the game on a three-game slide, most recently dropping a 19 point decision to Colorado School of Mines. As one of the better defensive teams in the conference, the 'Rockers only allow 73.8 points per game. While limiting points, South Dakota Mines also keeps opponents off the glass only allowing a 31 rebounds against average this season.

Following the South Dakota Mines game, Western will begin their preparations for a quick turnaround on the road against the Cowboys of New Mexico Highlands.