Montana vs. Colorado State final score: Rams defeat Grizzlies, 72-65

The Colorado St. Rams were able to overcome a seven-point halftime deficit to defeat the Big Sky preseason champion Montana Grizzlies, 72-65, on Friday night.

The Rams had a balanced attack Friday with five players in double figures, and Colton Iverson led the team with 18 points. Guard Wes Eikmeier had a disappointing opener, scoring 10 points on just 3-of-8 shooting.

Colorado State had a cold first half, shooting 6 of 24 from the floor, but they were able to hang around in the game due to quality rebounding. The Rams ended up with a 44-21 edge in rebounding, including 19 offensive boards.

In the second half, Colorado State's offense came alive as they were able to start out by going on an 8-0 run, and that gave them a 35-34 lead. From then on out, the game was close, and both sides made runs. At the 6:42 mark, Colorado State had a 57-54 lead, and then made all 11 of their free throws down the stretch to pull away from Montana.

The win for Colorado State first-year head coach Larry Eustachy was No. 403 for his career.