GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. – The No. 4 Colorado Mesa Mavericks secured their place in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference Tournament Championship after defeating Adams State, 78-66, in the first semi-final Friday night in Brownson Arena.

Behind eight, 3-pointers and 32 points from the bench, the Mavs shot 46 percent from the hardwood while also sinking 24-of-29 chances at the line. ASU grabbed just one more rebound, making it just the seventh game all season that the Mavs didn't win the battle of the boards.

Colorado Mesa won the opening tip, but it was the Grizzlies who opened scoring with a dunk from Frederick Jackson. Answer, David Rico from beyond the arc to put up the first points for the Mavs. Rico would come up with a offensive rebound, chucking it out to a open Georgie Dancer who knocked down another 3-pointer to give the 6-4 score.

Halfway through the first, CMU had built up a 22-15 lead.

An ASU three, gave them a 27-26 edge for just a brief second, before a pair of free throws gave way to a 28-27 advantage for CMU. After a layup from Jared Small, the Mavs were ahead 32-28.

The Mavs efficient shooting continued into the second half, with each team making the same amount of field goals, Mesa did it in 10 less attempts.

In an effort to stop the clock and delay the ending, Adam State sent Colorado Mesa to the line but the Mavs would sink 17-of-22 on their way to victory, outscoring the visitors 46-38 in the second frame.

Ethan Menzies was one rebound shy of a double-double with 13-points and 9-rebounds. Mac Riniker had a big night as well, racking up 14-points, followed by Jared Small with 13. Georgie Dancer and Reece Johnson each contributed 10 points a piece in the win.

Tomorrow's championship match will feature the winner of the second semi-final between Black Hills State and Colorado School of Mines.