DURANGO, Colo. (November 19, 2016) -- Adams State University closed out the Fort Lewis Classic with a 2-0 record thanks to a 95-84 win on Saturday over Embry-Riddle University (Ariz.).

The non-conference tilt resulted in an offensive shootout as the Grizzlies (2-3) shot 56.9 percent from the field while the Eagles shot 60 percent from the field. Both teams went on to reach a double digit total in made three-pointers with the Grizzlies and Eagles shooting 52.4 and 41.7 percent, respectively, from downtown.

The hot shooting resulted in a close affair at times but the Grizzlies did hold the lead for the majority of the game.

Helping ASU to an early lead was Shane Johnson who was responsible for the team's initial 12 points thanks to 4 three-pointers. Johnson's quick start gave the Grizzlies a 12-6 lead. The Eagles cut their deficit to a point near the midway point of the half but ASU never surrendered the lead.

Two Ethan Caton free throws gave ASU a 42-33 lead with 1:44 before halftime but the Eagles closed the opening stanza with a 7-2 run to give ASU a slim 44-40 lead at the break.

A Jaran Hoover three-pointer to begin the second half made it 44-43 but ASU immediately responded with a 14-0 run. The Eagles would not go away quietly and chipped the ASU lead down to 5 with 4:25 remaining. Baskets by Brandon Sly, Johnson, and Jarrett Givens that followed revived the Grizzly lead back to double digits after the scare to help seal the victory.

Johnson finished with a game-high 24 points as Givens added 16. J.R. Tailey kept busy with 15 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists. Sly also finished with 15 points along with a game-high 8 assists. Brandon Pasker was the fifth Grizzly to finish in double figures with 12 points.

"It was a great game for us to practice playing against a zone. We are beginning to find our identity as a team." Head Coach Russ Caton said following the game.

The Grizzlies are back in action on Tuesday, Nov. 22^nd for their home opener against Northern New Mexico College. Tip-Off is scheduled for 7:30p.m. from Plachy Hall.
For any future updates on ASU men's basketball, stay connected with www.asugrizzlies.com