GOLDEN, Colorado — In the Grizzlies' RMAC conference opener, the Men's team falls to Colorado School of Mines in a high-scoring affair, 97-87. The loss in tonight's game drops the Grizzlies to a record of 5-3(0-1 RMAC).
Tonight's game was truly a back-and-forth game as both teams played well and could have come out on top. The difference in the game ended up being Colorado School of Mines's ability to make the 3-point shot and rebound the basketball compared to the Grizzlies. In the game, the Orediggers went 11-24 for a 45.8% 3-point percentage compared to the Grizzlies, who shot 6-20 for a 30% 3-point percentage. Along with the difference in 3-pointers made, the Orediggers collected 8 more rebounds than the Grizzlies, playing a huge role in the Mines offense, collecting extra possessions over the Grizzlies. With 8 more rebounds and their 5 extra 3-point shots made, the Orediggers were able to hold onto the lead to close out tonight's game.
Outside of 3-pointers made and rebounds, tonight's game was very close as both teams limited the turnovers while having efficient offense. Both teams finished the game, only committing 14 turnovers while both shooting over 45% for the game. The Grizzlies finished the game 30-66 from the floor for a 45.5% shooting percentage, while the Orediggers finished the game 34-71 for a 47.9% shooting percentage. As well, both teams missed some opportunities at the free throw line as the Grizzlies shot 80.8% missing 5 free throws, while Mines went 18-25, missing 7 free throws. With the game tonight being so close, the small differences in rebounds and 3-pointers really hindered the Grizzlies from making a comeback late to win their first RMAC conference game.
Shining for the Grizzlies tonight were Luke Williams, Jaylen Alexander, and Dillan Baker. Williams and Alexander led the way for the Grizzlies tonight as both men had outstanding games. Williams finished with a team lead in points with 23 while also leading the team in both rebounds with 9 and assists with 5. William's great play was not only on the offensive side as he also collected 1 block and 1 steal during the game to make his night an all-around great performance. Alexander followed suit by scoring 22 points of his own while also collecting 6 rebounds and 1 assist. Alexander was very efficient during tonight's game, shooting 7-11 from the floor and 8-11 from the free throw line to collect his 22 points. Baker was the other Grizzly to score double-digit points tonight as he collected 18 points while also recording 3 rebounds and 1 assist during the game.
Up next for the Grizzlies Men's Basketball team will be another road game, this Sunday, December 7th. The game will be against Metro State at 2 PM MST at their home court. Sunday's game will be a great opportunity for the Grizzlies to bounce back and even their RMAC conference record to 1-1 early in the season. Tune in to the Grizzlies game this Sunday on the RMAC Network.
