ALAMOSA, Colo. – The atmosphere was electric as an already buzzing crowd witnessed a game of runs, where momentum swung like a rollercoaster. After the dust settled, the Grizzly men's basketball team clinched their inaugural home win of the season, triumphing 78-71 over the New Mexico Cowboys Saturday.
 
This victory marks a turning point for the Grizzlies, snapping a challenging seven-game losing streak. Their overall record now stands at 3-7, with a 1-3 standing in the RMAC.
 
The contest featured seven lead changes and the score tied twice. In the initial half, Adams State capitalized on defensive rebounds to offset missed shots, securing an early advantage.
 
Leading the charge was Austin Fadal, whose all-around prowess from beyond the arc and the free-throw line garnered 17 points in the first half. Jude Tapia showcased versatility, contributing five points, three rebounds, and two assists in a mere 13 minutes of play.
 
With a commanding 17-point lead at halftime (45-28), ASU strategically utilized their first-half groundwork as an asset in the latter period, enabling them to remain within striking distance. The game took a turn when Jaylen Domina-Lovato's accurate three-pointer propelled New Mexico Highlands University to a narrow lead over ASU.
 
Initiating a comeback, Kolby Walker's three-pointer shifted the score to 67 for the Grizzlies and 66 for the Cowboys with 4:50 remaining.
 
The remainder of the game unfolded as a highly competitive exchange, with both teams consistently trading leads.
 
In a pivotal final moment, Austin Fadal secured the win for Adams State by scoring a crucial free throw, culminating in an impressive 26-point performance.
 
Looking ahead, Adams State is set to host Colorado Mesa University at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, December 15, in Plachy Hall.