BOULDER, Colo. — The Colorado Buffaloes men's basketball team faced a formidable challenge Sunday, falling to No. 21 West Virginia 78-70 at the CU Events Center. Despite a valiant effort, the Buffs could not overcome the Mountaineers' offensive prowess and turnover issues.
The loss drops Colorado to 9-6 overall and 0-4 in Big 12 play, extending their losing streak to four. Junior guard Julian Hammond III led the Buffaloes with 23 points, while freshman forward Assane Diop contributed 13 points and five rebounds, showcasing his potential against a ranked opponent.
West Virginia's standout guard Javon Small, the Big 12’s leading scorer, tallied 26 points, including three consecutive three-pointers that extended the Mountaineers' lead early in the second half. Guard Joseph Yesufu added 18 points, with eight coming during a decisive 13-4 run late in the game that thwarted Colorado's comeback efforts.
Turnovers continued to plague the Buffaloes, who entered the contest with the worst turnover margin in the conference. Colorado committed 14 turnovers, many leading to fast-break opportunities for the Mountaineers. Head coach Tad Boyle acknowledged the issue postgame, emphasizing the need for better decision-making and composure under pressure.
A poignant moment occurred before tipoff as the arena held a moment of silence to honor legendary Colorado football coach Bill McCartney, who passed away Friday at 84. McCartney's contributions to CU athletics left an indelible mark, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of Buffs.
Looking ahead, Colorado faces another significant test as they host Cincinnati on Wednesday. The matchup presents an opportunity for the Buffs to regroup and seek their first conference win. Despite recent struggles, players and fans remain optimistic about the team's potential as they navigate the rigorous Big 12 schedule.
For the Buffs, the path forward will require resilience, sharper execution, and a renewed focus on minimizing turnovers. With strong performances from Hammond and Diop, Colorado hopes to turn the corner and reassert themselves as a formidable contender in their new conference.