Buffs Triumph Over Tough Cal Baptist Team: A Thrilling Showdown in Colorado Athletics

BOULDER—In an exciting matchup, the Colorado Buffaloes defeated Cal Baptist 78-70 on Monday night. This impressive win marked the Buffs’ 8-0 start, their best since the 1949-50 season—76 years ago.

Coach Tad Boyle acknowledged the challenge of facing a strong opponent. “They are a well-coached team,” he said. Despite a slow start where his team fell behind, Boyle was pleased the Buffs were able to secure the victory.

Isaiah Johnson stood out, scoring 17 points and going 9-for-11 from the free-throw line. Other key contributors included Sebastian Rancik and Barrington Hargress, who both scored 12 points, and Alon Michaeli with 11. Defensively, Bangot Dak was pivotal, grabbing eight rebounds and blocking two shots.

The game’s early moments were rocky for the Buffs. They managed only nine points in the first 12 minutes and trailed by 14 points at one point. Yet, they rallied, cutting the deficit to just two by halftime. “I don’t know how we were down just two at halftime,” Boyle remarked.

As the second half began, the Buffs found their rhythm. After a decisive 16-0 run, they pulled ahead by 12 points. However, Cal Baptist fought back, closing the gap to five. Dominique Daniels Jr. from Cal Baptist hit crucial shots to keep the game competitive, but the Buffs sealed their win with six successful free throws in the last 31 seconds.

Looking forward, CU will face in-state rival Colorado State on Saturday, live on CBS Sports.

Here are some noteworthy stats and insights from this game:

• Historical Context: The last time the Buffs started 8-0 was in 1949-50. Reflecting on this long gap illustrates how significant this achievement is for the program.
• Statistical Highlights: CU has had four players scoring in double figures in every game this season, showing their offensive depth. This balance is critical as teams often rely on multiple scorers for success.
• Current Trends: The Buffs are 3-0 when trailing at halftime this season, showcasing their resilience.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on how the Buffs handle their next challenges. Their chemistry and determination make them a team to watch. For more details on the Buffaloes and college basketball trends, see the NCAA website here.

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