In the heart of the Black Hills, a spirited battle unfolded between Black Hills State University (BHSU) and South Dakota Mines (SDSMT) on December 2, 2025. The women’s basketball game, held in Rapid City, showcased the tenacity and spirit characteristic of South Dakota’s collegiate athletes. Despite a valiant effort by the Yellow Jackets, BHSU fell short, losing 64-62 to their rivals, the Hardrockers. This fiercely competitive game marked another chapter in the long-standing rivalry between these two South Dakota institutions.
Game Highlights
The game was a testament to skill and resilience, as athletes from both teams displayed exceptional talent. For Black Hills State, Bradie Schlabs and Addie Branscum were standout performers. Schlabs, who is recognized for her agility and precision, scored 15 points, added 6 assists, and made 3 crucial steals. Branscum achieved her first career double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds, a remarkable feat that solidifies her as a key player for BHSU.
The game was attended by 357 spectators, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of the Donald E. Young Sports and Fitness Center. The electrifying energy from fans of both teams amplified the competitive nature of the contest. South Dakota Mines’ victory marked their first win in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC), changing their record to 2-6 overall and 1-0 in conference play. Meanwhile, the Yellow Jackets dropped to a 1-5 overall record and 0-1 in the RMAC.
A Closer Look at the Game
The game began with BHSU taking an early 4-0 lead as Bradie Schlabs and Addie Branscum executed a flawless combination of free throws and layups. This set the pace for an intense first quarter, during which the Yellow Jackets led 18-12. By halftime, the score was tightly contested with BHSU narrowly ahead at 29-28.
During the fourth quarter, South Dakota Mines executed a decisive 10-0 run that shifted momentum in their favor, securing a five-point lead at 59-54. Despite BHSU’s effort to close the gap, highlighted by Schlabs’ layup, the Yellow Jackets were unable to surpass SDSMT’s lead. The game culminated in a dramatic half-court heave by Schlabs at the buzzer, which, unfortunately for BHSU, missed its mark. This closely contested match epitomized the intense competition and strong regional rivalry that defines South Dakota’s intercollegiate sports.
Looking Ahead
With the RMAC home opener against Chadron State looming on the horizon, BHSU is focused on regrouping. This upcoming game presents an opportunity for the Yellow Jackets to reverse their five-game losing streak and demonstrate the growth and resilience forged by their recent challenges.
As South Dakota continues to foster student-athletes who embody grit and determination, events such as this allow communities to rally behind local talent and highlight the significance of collegiate sports in the region. The thrilling contest between BHSU and SDSMT underscores the vibrant culture of athletic rivalry in South Dakota, a state where passion for sports and education runs deep.
This game was more than just a statistic; it was a reflection of the community that supports its favorite teams with unwavering enthusiasm, creating memories that will endure long after the final buzzer.
For additional information, reach out to BHSU Athletics via info@bhsu.edu.