Buffaloes Cruise Past Missouri State 87-59

The Buffs' offense once again fired on all cylinders in an 87-59 victory over the Missouri State Bears. Lethal three-point shooting and several solid performances powered the CU women's basketball team to a win in their opening round game in the Omni Classic.

"I really liked our effort tonight. I thought we played a complete game, both offensively and defensively," said Coach Linda Lappe.

Lexy Kresl opened the game up with eight of CU's first 10 points.  Kresl and Haley Smith combined for 23 of the Buffaloes 37 first half points.

CU continued to pile on the pressure in the second half led by Jamee Swan scoring 14 in the half after going scoreless in the first. The Buffs began to pull away with less than 10 minutes left to play when Lauren Huggins hit two three-pointers on consecutive possessions.

Haley Smith led the Buffaloes with a career-high 18 points to continue her high offensive output to start the season.  Kresl added five three-pointers and 17 points.   Jen Reese also grabbed her 500^th rebound of her career.

"My teammates are hitting me for open shots. I don't feel like I'm having to create too many shots; I'm just hitting the ones that are open," commented Smith on her offensive game.

CU will face rival Colorado State Saturday at 7:30 in the championship game of the Omni Classic.  Colorado State beat TCU 76-62 to advance to the championship game.

"We're excited, and we really hope that it will be a great crowd," said Lappe about getting the chance to play Colorado State.