ALAMOSA, Colorado — Adams State Men's Basketball returned to Plachy Hall on Saturday morning for its second consecutive home contest, welcoming UT Permian Basin for a nonconference matchup. Despite a competitive first half and a strong offensive effort early, the Grizzlies were unable to overcome a second-half surge from the Falcons, falling 87-78. With the loss, Adams State moves to 1-2 on the young season.
The Grizzlies came out competing hard early, trading baskets with the Falcons throughout the opening half. Adams State found offensive production from multiple players, with Ta'Veus Randle leading the way with 12 first-half points. Jerrick Guidry also provided a spark from beyond the arc, knocking down four three-pointers in the opening half. The Grizzlies carried a slim 39-38 advantage into the halftime break after an evenly matched first 20 minutes.
Coming out of halftime, UT Permian Basin found its offensive rhythm, putting together a 49-point second half to take control of the contest. The Falcons shot an efficient 59.3% from the field in the second half while capitalizing on opportunities at the free-throw line, converting 15 of 22 attempts after failing to make it to the free throw line once in the first half. Despite the offensive production from the Falcons, Adams State continued to battle offensively, making today's game a back and forth game all the way down to the final buzzer.
Randle led the Grizzlies offensively with 19 points, eight rebounds, and four assists, shooting 7-of-12 from the field and connecting on three three-pointers. Guidry followed with 14 points, four rebounds, and four assists while knocking down four shots from beyond the arc. Emilek Jallow added 12 points and six assists, while Rondell Lewis III provided a spark off the bench with 10 points, two rebounds, and two steals. Christian Cox also contributed seven points and six rebounds off the bench.
As a team, Adams State finished the afternoon shooting 44.3% from the field and 28.1% from three-point range. The Grizzlies held a 44-28 advantage on the glass, including 18 offensive rebounds, and recorded 21 assists. However, UT Permian Basin's efficiency from the field and ability to generate 24 points off turnovers proved to be a difference in the nine-point decision.
Looking Forward
Up next for the Grizzlies, Adams State will look to regroup and build on its first-half performance as it continues its early-season schedule. The Grizzlies will hit the road for the remainder of November, beginning next Friday, November 20, against the University of Alaska Fairbanks. The matchup will take place in Nampa, Idaho, at the home of Northwest Nazarene University, where Adams State will compete in its next two road contests. Be sure to tune in and support your Grizzlies as Friday's matchup will be streamed live on the RMAC Network.
