The Colorado Buffaloes men’s basketball team secured a crucial victory, defeating the Arizona State Sun Devils 95-89 on March 15, 2024, at the Desert Financial Arena in Tempe, Arizona. This win marked a significant turnaround for the Buffaloes, who ended an 11-game losing streak in true road games and demonstrated their resilience in the competitive landscape of the Big 12 Conference.
Colorado established an early advantage, leading by as much as 14 points in the first half. They went into halftime with a score of 48-38, showcasing a balanced offensive performance. Despite facing pressure from Arizona State, who mounted a spirited comeback, the Buffaloes maintained their composure to secure the win.
As the second half unfolded, Arizona State capitalized on a scoring spree, including a run of 10 consecutive points that allowed them to take their first lead since the early minutes of the game, bringing the score to 81-80. In a tense final stretch, Colorado responded effectively. Freshman guard Isaiah Johnson played a pivotal role, scoring crucial points to reclaim the lead for the Buffaloes. He finished the game with a team-high 19 points.
Key contributions came from other players as well. Sebastian Rancik excelled at the free-throw line, converting 12 of 14 attempts and contributing 18 points overall. Bangot Dak recorded his third double-double of the season, finishing with 12 points and 10 rebounds, further solidifying his impact on the court.
The victory not only boosts the morale of the Colorado team but also sets a positive tone as they continue their Big 12 campaign. With their first road win secured, the Buffaloes will look to build momentum in the coming weeks, aiming for a competitive season ahead.
Following this performance, the Buffaloes will focus on refining their strategies and enhancing their teamwork as they prepare for their next matchup. The players and coaching staff are optimistic about what lies ahead, eager to capitalize on the success achieved in Tempe.
