DENVER (AP)—Nate Rohnert scored 20 points and sealed the win with two free throws in the last 11 seconds as Denver defeated previously unbeaten Montana 56-49 on Thursday night.
Chase Hallam had 14 for the Pioneers (2-1). Andrew Hooper added 12 for the Grizzlies.
Anthony Johnson led Montana (3-1) with 23 points. Brian Qvale had 10 of his 12 points in the second half.
The Grizzlies failed to get their first 4-0 start since opening the 1995-96 season 5-0.
Denver’s 14-point halftime lead was reduced to 53-49 with 1:40 left after consecutive baskets by Johnson. The Grizzlies missed their next three shots.
Andrew Hooper made 1 of 2 free throws, and after Raason Young’s shot was blocked, Rohnert sealed the win by hitting two free throws with 10.7 seconds left.
