ALAMOSA, Colorado — The Grizzlies fall to CSU Pueblo in a hard fought defensive battle by a final score of 73-65. The Grizzly loss drops Adams State to a record of 10-7(4-5 RMAC).
In tonight's defensive battle the Grizzlies struggled to get any true offense going as they only scored 28 points in the first half and 37 in the second half for their final total of 65. Throughout the game the Grizzlies never could get their shots to fall consistently finishing the game 22-52 from the floor for a final field goal percentage of 42.3%. As well, the Grizzlies finished 7-23 from behind the 3-point line and 14-26 from the free throw line. With this inconsistent shooting CSU Pueblo was able to pull away late for the late 8 point win.
The determining factor for CSU Pueblo in today's game was their ability to make 3 more 3-pointers, and 3 more free throws. In such a close, hard fought game, the small differences in free throw and 3-point percentage in favor of CSU Pueblo gave them the edge in the second half when they outscored the Grizzlies 45-37 to secure their road win.
The one place the Grizzlies did shine today was on the defensive side of the ball, holding a good CSU Pueblo offense to 73 points on the night. On the night, the Grizzlies were able to hold CSU Pueblo to a field goal percentage of 40.4%, while also forcing 10 turnovers. With this stingy defense, the Grizzlies were able to keep tonight's game close throughout giving them a chance to pull out tonight's game just falling short.
Individually for the Grizzlies, they were led by Wyatt Helming and Jaylen Alexander. Helming and Alexander combined for 29 of the Grizzlies 65 points, along with 12 rebounds and 2 assists on the night. This duo was led by Alexander who finished the night with a double-double, collecting 14 points, 10 rebounds, and 2 assists for an all-around great game. Helming followed the lead of Alexander, scoring 15 points on 5-10 shooting, while making 3-5 3-pointers, and 2-3 free throws. Helming almost collected 2 rebounds on the night before falling into foul trouble late.
Looking forward to the Grizzlies next game, they will look to bounce back this Saturday, January 24th, when they take on Colorado Christian University. The game against CCU will be held at 3 PM MST, at the home of the Grizzlies, Plachy Hall. The Grizzlies will look to bounce back against a CCU team who is currently 2-6 in conference. Saturday's game will be not only a great opportunity for the Grizzlies to bounce back, but also a great opportunity to move up in the RMAC conference standings as they currently sit tied for ninth place and only 1 game back of moving up into the top seven in conference. Come out to support the Grizzlies this Saturday as the Grizzlies will look to get back on track as they continue to make a strong push as they close out the conference regular season.
