ALAMOSA, Colo. — Westminster women's basketball opened the new year on the road Thursday night, falling 76–64 to Adams State at Plachy Hall in RMAC play.

The Griffins stayed within striking distance throughout, as the game featured nine ties and five lead changes. Westminster trailed 17–15 after the first quarter and 34–31 at halftime before Adams State used 21-point third and fourth quarters to pull away late.

Ellie Mitchell led Westminster with 18 points on 7–15 shooting, adding 6 rebounds, 2 assists, and a steal. Madison Anderson followed with 15 points and 9 rebounds, going 5–14 from the field and 5–7 at the free-throw line. Teuila Nawahine added 12 points and 5 rebounds, while Emily Evans contributed 8 points and a team-high 9 rebounds.

Nisa Ellis provided 6 points off the bench on 3–3 shooting, and Makeili Ika chipped in 3 points, 3 rebounds, and 2 assists.

Westminster shot 36.4% (24–66) from the field and 31.3% (5–16) from three while finishing 11–13 (84.6%) at the free-throw line. The Griffins totaled 40 rebounds, scored 32 points in the paint, and added 16 fast-break points.

Adams State shot 44.3% (27–61) from the field and was led by Taejhuan Hill's 17 points and Elaina Watson's 15 points. The Grizzlies scored 26 points off turnovers and 21 fast-break points to secure the win.

Westminster (3–8, 0–5 RMAC) continues conference play this weekend.