Boulder, CO – Losing their previous conference game to Oregon State, the No. 25 Colorado Buffaloes (13-3, 2-1 Pac-12) came out in Coors Events Center with a vengeance, dominating the Utah Utes (10-5, 1-2 Pac-12) 91-52 on Sunday.
Colorado came out hot in the first half. Setting the tone early, there was no doubt in the CU Events Center the Buffs would secure the win. Colorado was led by forward Evan Battey, who was 5-of-7 (10 pts, 6 reb in first half – 17 and 10 overall) from the floor during the half. Junior point guard McKinley Wright IV made sure to get his teammates involved, having eight Buffs score before the six-minute mark of the first half.
Playing with a load of confidence, the Buffs had a 22- point lead over Utah going into the second half.
The Buffaloes’ offense seemed to have “come alive” in the last few games. Displaying a newfound sense of brotherhood and team chemistry, the Buffs had their highest scoring half this year, with 44 points against Utah.
What were the Keys for Colorado?
Penetrating the paint and kicking out the pass played a huge role in Colorado’s 91 points. This sent the Utah defense into a scramble, forcing off-ball defenders to step up, and commit to the ball handler.
Colorado created 16 opportunities for second chance points by grabbing offensive boards, totaling 44 rebounds – 22 of which came from forwards Tyler Bey (12 reb) and Battey.
Colorado shot 38-of-68 (59.4%) from the floor, compared to the Utes’ 19-of-54 (35.2%). Obviously, we know the name of the game is to put the ball into the basket more than the other opposing team. Utah waited too late to work the ball and get a good shot. Many quick shots were taken, as well as unforced turnovers that the Buffs capitalized off of.
Who is Next for the Buffs?
The Buffaloes will take on the Arizona State Sun Devils this Thursday, January 16 in Tempe.
