The Colorado Buffaloes got their second win on the year and improved their record to 2-2 as they beat Western Michigan 81-76. Colorado was down early in the first half, but they hung in there and managed to come back and win. Although Western Michigan is not an elite team, a win is a win. Impressively, the Buffaloes were able to win without Andre Roberson for most of the game. Carlon Brown stepped up again and led all scorers with 23 points. Askia Booker pitched in with 11 points off the bench and Austin Dufault tallied 16 points. It was not the prettiest effort; but, the Buffs got the win.
Things the Buffaloes did well: Carlon Brown is putting up great numbers every game and was a major factor in the Buffaloes' win today. 23 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, and he made all of his 6 free throws. The guy can get to the rim at will and had a great euro step move in the latter part of the second half. Austin Dufault played better than his previous two games with 16 points and 8 rebounds and looked more comfortable out there. Nate Tomlinson finally had a decent game tallying 12 points, 4 assists and most importantly, 0 turnovers. The Buffaloes looked shaky in the first half when they were down 12, but they were able to hang in there and the defense gradually improved throughout the game. Additionally, they finally shot well from the line, going 22-27. Overall, Colorado played a decent game and was able to get the win without any impact from Roberson because of his foul trouble.
Things the Buffaloes struggled with: Andre Roberson picked up 4 fouls in 5 minutes of play. Having an impact player do that is just unacceptable. The team's help defense still doesn't look very strong. Near the end of the game, Demetrius Ware was backing down Carlon Brown all the way to the hoop and no help came. Ware thankfully missed an easy hook shot, but in a key situation like that help defense has to be there. Also, at the end of the second half, there were a couple of crucial free throw shots that the Broncos missed and Colorado just didn't box out. If the Buffaloes cannot continually improve on the little things, they are going to lose close games. Colorado did not play its most complete game, yet they found a way to win and that is all that matters.
Up Next: The Buffaloes play at Air Force this Wednesday, the 23rd, at 7:00 Mountain Time. The Air Force Falcons are 3-0, but have not really had a tough opponent and played all their games at home. If Roberson and Brown step up, Colorado should pull out a victory.