INDIANAPOLIS — Competing in a loaded field that featured 15 of the nation's top 20 teams, Adams State finished 23rd, highlighted by Isaiah Gamez's impressive second-place performance.

The Midwest Classic showcases 43 of the top Division II programs, including six ranked in the nation's top 10. Often regarded as a key preview of NCAA outcomes, the event marks the one-third point of the season.

Wrestling at 125 pounds, Gamez earned a first-round bye before dominating his next three opponents, including RMAC rival Hunter Jacobsen of Chadron State with a pin in 1:40. In the semifinals, Gamez secured a 4-0 decision over Colton Drousias from Glenville State. In the championship match, Gamez fell to Central Missouri's Jakason Burks, 10-4. The victory brought Burks' season record to 14-2.

Other point scorers for the Grizzlies included Sergio Zaragoza, Levi Deaguero, Kieran Thompson and Adam Concepcion.

"While it was not the result that we hoped for, there are plenty of good takeaways and things that we are looking to build on throughout the course of the season," said Head Coach Jason Ramstetter. 

The Grizzlies were missing key wrestlers, including NCAA All-Americans Angel Flores and Aaden Valdez, as well as DJ Van Matre, who took sixth place at regionals last year. Adams State will look to return to full strength on Jan. 10, when they head to Western Colorado for the Western State Open.