Colorado clinched their fifth conference win of the season with an 83-69 victory, jumping ahead of Oklahoma State in the Big 12 standings.
The Buffs defended home court behind dominating performances from point guard Barrington Hargress and forward Bangot Dak.
Three takeaways from Colorado's 83-69 conference win
Bangot Dak had an all-around game
Dak finished one point shy of his season high of 18 points, which he set on Nov. 21 against UC Davis.
He scored 17 points on 5-of-8 shooting and grabbed seven rebounds, adding a block and a steal.
He anchored a defense that held the Cowboys to just 38% from the field and 22% from three-point range (5-of-23).
Colorado's bench was much better
Since Isaiah Johnson moved into the starting lineup, Tad Boyle's bench has struggled to keep pace in conference games.
The bench contributed 26 of Colorado's 83 points, with 12 from Alon Michaeli and 8 from Ian Inman.
The true freshman Johnson had an off night, but still contributed nine points and five assists.
Great start in the first half
Colorado held its opponent scoreless for a five-minute stretch in the first half, building a commanding 25-8 lead.
Hargress has been Mr. Reliable for the Buffs, chipping in 16 points along with four rebounds, eight assists, and three steals.
Oklahoma State clawed back to take a one-point lead in the second half, but Colorado quickly stepped on the gas again. The Cowboys missed their last ten shots, allowing CU to pull away for a 14-point victory.