Denver, Colo.: (By Dylan Docker): The Rangers returned to the Regis Fieldhouse for the first time in two weeks Friday night to meet the Grizzlies of Adams State College. Regis looked to start a new semester with a victory at home but struggled to contain the high-tempo Grizzlies offense and fell 82-56.

Regis (4-12, 1-11 RMAC) fought hard to take control in the first half. Both teams exchanged offensive bursts through the first 11 minutes, but the Rangers appeared to have the edge with a 22-21 lead. However, the Grizzlies (12-3, 9-3 RMAC) came to life with a 13-0 run to take a 12-point lead, their largest of the half.  

Adams State senior guard Jamiko Verner showed hustle all night, sprinting to the rim to score points or draw fouls every time he touched the ball. His 17 first half points would lead the Grizzlies, who took a 41-29 lead into the locker room at halftime.

Unfortunately the Rangers could not overcome the deficit as the visitors refused to yield control. Freshman guard Dylan King tried to lead the Regis comeback with nine points, but the Grizzlies maintained a double-digit lead throughout the half before going on to win 82-56.

The Rangers got a solid effort from senior guard Chris Johansen, who played 32 minutes off the bench and led the team with 15 points. He went 7-12 from the field and capped off a good night with two rebounds and a steal.

King, who also came off the bench, ended up with a career-high 14 points for Regis. He hit four field goals in six attempts, went 5-5 at the charity stripe, and collected two rebounds in just 16 minutes of play.

The Rangers will welcome Fort Lewis to the Fieldhouse tomorrow night. Tip-off is scheduled for 5 p.m.