Grand Junction, Colo. – The Adams State women's basketball team battled until the final seconds but fell to UCCS 74-71 in the RMAC Tournament Semifinals Friday night at Brownson Arena. 

With the loss, the Grizzlies move to 22-10 overall and will no await their postseason fate. Adams State will find out if its season continues during the NCAA Divison II Selection Show on Sunday at 8:30 p.m. MT. 

The semifinal match-up lived up to its billing, featuring nine lead changes and nine ties as the two teams traded runs throughout the night. Adams State opened the game strong, shooting 50 percent in the first quarter to take a 14-12 lead after the opening period. 

The Grizzlies maintained control for much of the first half, extending their lead to six late in the second quarter before UCCS trimmed the margin. Adams State carried a 34-31 advantage into halftime after shooting over 64 percent in the second quarter. 

Adams State continued its offensive rhythm in the third quarter, again shooting better than 64 percent from the field. The Grizzlies outscored the Mountain Lions 24-21 in the period to take a 58-52 lead into the final quarter. 

UCCS responded in the fourth, outscoring Adams State 22-13 to secure the comeback victory. After Adams State took a 71-69 lead with 50 seconds remaining, UCCS answered with a three-pointer to reclaim the lead before adding a late basket in the final seconds to seal the 74-71 win. 

Kiiyani Anitielu led Adams State with 16 points and four assists, while Ashiian Hunter and Taejhuan Hill each added 14 points. Hill also pulled down a team-high nine rebounds. Jada Price chipped in 11 points for the Grizzlies. 

As a team, Adams State shot an impressive 56 percent from the field and scored 46 points in the paint. 

The Grizzlies will now await Sunday night's NCAA Division II Selection Show to learn if their season will continue in the national tournament.