Spearfish, South Dakota - The Cowboys pushed nationally ranked Black Hills State to the brink but ultimately fell 79-74 on Thursday night at the A2 Arena. The loss drops New Mexico Highlands to 5-13 overall and 3-4 in RMAC play, while the Yellow Jackets - ranked number 15 in this week's NABC Division II poll - improve to 13-2 overall and 6-1 in conference action.
After scoring the game's opening basket, the Cowboys fell behind by as many as 15 points in the first half before a late run trimmed the Yellow Jacket lead to 33-24 at halftime.Â
New Mexico Highlands outscored Black Hills State 50-46 in the second half and pulled within three points in the final minutes, but ultimately ran out of time in its comeback attempt.
Marcus Pierce once again led the Cowboys in scoring on Thursday, scoring a game-high 19 points on 6-of-11 shooting from the floor, including 3-of-5 from beyond the arc.
Ramiah Adedigba added 16 points, while
BJ Comer and
Ibrahima Sacko chipped in 14 apiece. Adedigba also turned in a solid night defensively, recording a career-high six steals.
New Mexico Highlands forced 19 Yellow Jacket turnovers and converted them into 27 points.Â
Black Hills State held a 43–25 advantage on the glass.
The road trip continues for the Cowboys as they head to Nebraska following this evening's game for a Saturday date with Chadron State. Tip-off is scheduled for 3:00 pm. The Eagles dropped a 92-90 decision to Adams State on Thursday night.
