CHADRON, Neb. – Adams State used a strong second half to pull away from Chadron State and secure a 74–64 road victory in Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference play Thursday night. Led by Kiiyani Anitielu, the Grizzlies took their first lead deep into the third quarter and never looked back.
Adams State trailed after the opening quarter but settled in defensively and gradually built momentum as the game progressed. Despite shooting just 30% from the field and 22% from beyond the arc in the first half, the Grizzlies stayed within striking distance by committing only 11 personal fouls compared to 22 for the Eagles.
After falling behind 21–15 at the end of the first quarter, Adams State went into halftime down 38–27. The Grizzlies then delivered their best stretch of the night coming out of the locker room, forcing stops and converting in transition to seize control of the game. Adams State outscored Chadron State 29–11 in the third quarter.
Chadron State attempted to rally in the fourth quarter, but Adams State maintained its composure at the free-throw line and added 18 more points to secure the win. Anitielu led all scorers with 30 points, while Taejhuan Hill and Ashiian Hunter added 13 and 10 points, respectively. Hill also pulled down 12 rebounds, and Elaina Watson added eight boards.
With the victory, Adams State improves to 12–5 overall and 6–1 in RMAC play, while Chadron State falls to 1–11 overall and 1–6 in conference action.
The Grizzlies return to action Saturday as RMAC play continues, traveling to Rapid City, S.D., to take on South Dakota Mines.