ALAMOSA, Colo. (November 15, 2014) – It was a banner introduction for the Adams State University men's basketball team on Saturday night from Plachy Hall Gym. The Grizzlies registered a convincing 92-64 non-conference win over the Northwest Christian University Beacons to begin their home slate for 2014-15.
 
Shakir Smith had a game-high 25 points off a 6-8 shooting performance from beyond the arc. The junior guard posted 22 of his 25 points in the opening stanza along with all six of his made three-pointers. The hot start was contagious for nearly every ASU player as the Grizzlies jumped out to a 25-8 lead with 12:02 remaining before halftime. The Grizzlies held onto to the 20+ point lead throughout the duration of the opening stanza and went into halftime up 54-34.
 
Although the second half presented a more balanced affair the Grizzlies never relinquished their lead. In fact, the Beacons never reached closer than 18 points.
 
All cylinders clicked offensively for head coach Louis Wilson's squad as Adams State shot 63% (36-57) from the floor and 47% from three-point range. The impressive field goal shooting nearly surpassed the team's 66% (12-18) free throw performance.
 
In total, 10 Grizzlies saw the court which translated into a 35-27 edge in bench scoring production.
 
Led by Smith's 25 points four Grizzlies finished in double figures. Michael Middlebrooks tallied 15 points, five rebounds, and five blocks shots in a starting role while Travante Williams and Kendyl Grover contributed 18 and 12 points, respectively, off the bench.
 
It will be a quick turnaround for Adams State as the team travels to Reno, Nevada for a Nov. 17 exhibition contest with the University of Nevada. Tip off is scheduled for an 8:00 p.m. start time.