GUNNISON, Colo. (December 18, 2015) – A gritty second half push propelled Adams State University to a 93-91 comeback road win over Western State Colorado University on Friday evening.

With the win, Adams State has now won their last seven meetings against their longtime rival. The streak dates back to the 2012-13 season.

"We competed but it wasn't pretty. We need a better all-around team effort with all the little things that make a difference." Head coach Russ Caton said after the win.

The Grizzlies (4-5, 3-1 RMAC) found themselves trailing 35-22 in the final stages of the first half but managed to cut the Mountaineer lead to 42-37 by halftime. Western State continued to pester Adams State and controlled the lead early in the second half. However, the Grizzlies went on a 12-3 run midway through the period to claim a 66-64 lead. The lead came after a Shakir Smith fastbreak layup. Smith followed with a free throw after being fouled on the play to give ASU a 67-64 advantage. Western State answered with a three-pointer to tie the affair but a Vitor Machado three-pointer two possessions later gave ASU the lead for good.

Smith tallied a game-high 34 points along with 5 steals and 4 assists to pace the Grizzlies. It marked Smith's third 30+ point game of the season. Joe Bell Austin and DJ Morgan provided 16 and 10 points, respectively. Kendyl Grover added 8 points and 9 rebounds before fouling out late in the game.

Adams State surged offensively by shooting 67 percent (21-31) in the second half after shooting 37 percent (12-32) in the opening stanza.

The program is back in action tomorrow night at 7:30pm against Colorado State University-Pueblo. The ThunderWolves are coming off an 87-76 loss on Friday night against Fort Lewis College.