Buffaloes in the NBA: Spencer Dinwiddie saves the Nets

Former Colorado Buffaloes star and current cultural icon Spencer Dinwiddie has further built his reputation as one of the clutchest late-game scorers in the game. On Halloween night, Dinwiddie drilled a three to tie the game, then hit the game-winning three with 7 seconds left in OT.

Dinwiddie finished the night with 25 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists and shot 5-9 from three. Alongside potential breakout star Caris LeVert, our goateed hero showed when it mattered. This is not the first he’s been key in a tight game, as among other games he famously outdueled LeBron James down the stretch last season.

In 8 games, Dinwiddie is backing up D’Angelo Russell and LeVert, but he’s been one of the most valuable bench players in the NBA thus far. In 28 minutes per game, he’s averaging 14.9 points, 3.6 assists and is shooting 44% from deep. If the Nets realize Russell kinda sucks, or if Russell continues to be injury plagued, Dinwiddie’s role should continue to expand.

Elsewhere in the NBA, only Alec Burks has played of the four other Buffs in the association, although he’s only played 11 minutes per game in his 5 appearances. It’s curious as to what his role will be on a Utah Jazz squad that is loaded with quality wings.

Andre Roberson will be out until December, at least, and his absence has been sorely missed on a struggling Oklahoma City Thunder. His elite premier defense is sorely missed, and although the Thunder badly need another shooting threat, they’re nervously awaiting his return.

Derrick White is also out until December with a heel injury, and though he was in line to start at point guard after Dejounte Murray’s torn ACL, the San Antonio Spurs have excelled with shooting-specialist Bryn Forbes starting with DeMar DeRozan taking over playmaking duties. White will be still be in line for major minutes once he returns, even if he doesn’t take over as starting PG.

George King hasn’t suited up yet for the Phoenix Suns, but the G League Northern Arizona Suns start their season on Saturday with him expected to contribute majorly. It will be worth following his development there.