Colorado Buffs Secure Road Victory Over ASU in Big 12 Opener
UPDATE: The Colorado Buffaloes triumphed over the Arizona State Sun Devils with a thrilling 95-89 victory on January 13, 2024, marking their first win in Big 12 play this season. This urgent win, achieved at Desert Financial Arena, ends an 11-game road losing streak for the Buffaloes, making it a pivotal moment for the team.
After rejoining the Big 12 last year, Colorado was determined not to extend their wait for a road victory. The Buffs surged to a commanding lead, going up by as much as 14 points in the first half and leading 48-38 at halftime. However, the Sun Devils mounted a fierce comeback, including a decisive 10-point run that gave them their first lead since early in the game at 81-80.
In a nail-biting finish, freshman Isaiah Johnson stepped up for the Buffs, sinking two crucial free throws with 1 minute, 50 seconds remaining to reclaim the lead. Johnson led all scorers with 19 points, showcasing his potential as a game-changer. Senior Sebastian Rancik also made a significant impact, going an impressive 12-for-14 from the free-throw line to contribute 18 points to the victory.
Adding to the excitement, Bangot Dak recorded his third double-double of the season, finishing with 12 points and 10 rebounds. This victory not only boosts the morale of the Colorado team but also sets a positive tone for their future conference games.
The Buffaloes will look to build on this momentum as they prepare for their next match, which is crucial for their standings in the Big 12. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if Colorado can sustain this performance and continue their upward trajectory in the league.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for further updates as Colorado navigates their Big 12 journey.