Box Score

ESPANOLA, N.M. (November 4, 2015) – Adams State University pulled off a 91-80 exhibition win over Northern New Mexico College to begin the 2015-16 season.

Behind 24 points apiece from Shakir Smith and DJ Morgan, the Grizzlies were able to fend off a pesky Eagles team that pulled within six points late in the second half. ASU responded with a 5-0 run in the final minute to secure the double digit margin of victory.

"It was what we needed. Always good to play someone different." Head coach Russ Caton said after the game. "They exposed a lot of holes, so we have a lot to work on. We played with good energy and we were very unselfish."

 Morgan shot 9-of-11 from the field in his ASU debut as Smith went 6-of-11 along with a 3-of-6 mark from downtown. The senior added a 9-of-11 performance from the free throw line and a team-high 5 assists. Joe Bell Austin chipped in 13 points and four assists as EJ Hubbard II provided 9 points.

The Grizzlies held a 25-15 edge in bench scoring and finished with 36 points off 24 NNMC turnovers.

Adams State is next in action at the Texan Tip-Off Classic in Stephenville, Texas on Nov. 13 against Angelo State University. Angelo State capped off last season ranked 19^th in the final NABC Coaches Poll with a 26-5 overall record.