The Colorado Buffaloes responded the best way they could after their shaky road trip to the Bay Area, beating the Arizona State Sun Devils by the score of 69-54. Arizona State is a bottom tier team in the Pac-12, and the Buffaloes came out and treated them like that the entire game. The defense was great, returning to its season form. Additionally, the Sun Devils could not match Colorado's intensity and the Buffaloes gained some much needed momentum heading into their showdown with Arizona this Saturday. Spencer Dinwiddie and Andre Roberson both led the way with 12 points each and Askia Booker and Austin Dufualt both added 11.
Things the Buffalos did well: The Buffaloes' defense was great once again, limiting Arizona State to shoot 37% and didn't let them get any second chances. Colorado usually struggles against zone, however, they penetrated the zone from the short corner and were patient and didn't force any shots. Austin Dufault and Nate Tomlinson, the two key seniors continue to play better and better in Pac-12 play. Their added leadership has helped the Buffaloes a great deal in conference play. More importantly, Andre Roberson played tremendously once again, creating terrible shots for the Sun Devils around the rim and adding some highlight dunks.
Things the Buffaloes struggled with: The Buffaloes continue to make this section harder to write whenever they play at the Coors Event Center. They gave Arizona State some open shots and had some careless play in the middle of the second half, but besides that, the Buffaloes played another complete game.
Up Next: The Buffaloes take on the Arizona Wildcats this Saturday at the Coors Event Center. Arizona has some great guards and can score down low with just about every team. If Colorado can play great defense and not make too many mistakes, the Buffaloes can beat Arizona.