by Alamosa, Colo. – The Adams State women’s basketball team came up short against N.M. Highlands on Thursday night, dropping a 77-66 contest in Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference action.
Despite a strong effort, the Grizzlies (14-9, 9-5 RMAC) could not overcome the balanced attack of the Cowgirls (10-9, 7-6 RMAC), who used key scoring bursts in the second half to secure the win.
The game started as a tightly contested affair, with both teams exchanging baskets early. Adams State trailed 19-17 after the first quarter but struggled to maintain momentum in the second. N.M. Highlands took advantage of turnovers and second-chance opportunities to outscore the Grizzlies 14-13 in the period, taking a slim 33-30 lead into halftime.
Coming out of the break, Adams State looked to turn things around, but N.M. Highlands had other plans. The Cowgirls pushed the tempo and found success from beyond the arc, as Kapiolani Anitielu led the charge with a game-high 22 points, including four three-pointers. Highlands outscored Adams State 22-18 in the third quarter and continued their strong play in the fourth to close out the game.
Adams State was led by Kiiyani Anitielu, who had an impressive night with 24 points and six rebounds. Taejhuan Hill recorded a double-double, finishing with 14 points and 11 boards. Brooke Rodgers also contributed 11 points, six rebounds, and three steals in the loss.
For N.M. Highlands, Anitielu’s 22 points were complemented by Juliana Aragon’s 20-point effort, while Aspen Salazar chipped in with 10 points.
Prior to the game beginning the Grizzlies also took the time to honor Angelline Nageak and Kiiyani Anitielu who joined the 1,000 career point club this season. Nageak has reached the milestone with 1,071 points while adding in an NCAA Career leading 327 steals. Anitielu has scored 1,061 points with her added 24 this evening.
