Las Vegas, N.M. – In a dramatic five-set battle, Adams State (2-8, 0-1 RMAC) fell to New Mexico Highlands (2-6, 1-0 RMAC) in a thrilling match Friday night, at the John A. Wilson Complex in Las Vegas, NM. 

Adams State took the first set convincingly with a score of 25-16, but New Mexico Highlands bounced back to win a tightly contested second set 29-27. The two teams traded sets again, with Highlands taking the third (25-23) and Adams State dominating the fourth (25-16) to force a decisive fifth set. In the end, Highlands came out on top in the final set 15-11 to secure the 3-2 victory.

Anna Huggins led Adams State with a standout performance, recording 21 kills and 14 digs. Katie Bauer contributed efficiently with 9 kills, hitting an impressive .529 percentage, while Ariel Barrera added 13 kills and 9 digs. The Grizzlies showed strong defensive play with 103 total digs but ultimately couldn't hold off the determined Highlands team.

For New Mexico Highlands, Angelina Burton was the offensive star, leading her team with 16 kills and adding 4 blocks. Jaylee Gonzales also played a key role with 14 kills and 13 digs, while setter Abby Carlsen dished out 22 assists.

Adams State looks to bounce back at home on Tuesday, September 24, against CSU-Pueblo at 6 p.m.