Buffaloes fall to Bears for first time in 89 years

Freshman Isaiah Johnson drives to the cup on his 25-point night. (Photo by Isaac Sterling/Sko Buffs Sports)

The Colorado Buffaloes (10-3) lost against in-state rival Northern Colorado Bears (10-3) in the final non-conference matchup for both teams. 

Northern Colorado shot an efficient 74% from the field in the second half to defeat Colorado 86–81, handing the Buffaloes their first loss to the Bears since 1936. Despite trailing by just two at halftime, the Buffs were unable to generate enough stops down the stretch to close the gap.

Guard Quinn Denker had a game and career high 33 points, adding a near triple-double with eight boards while dishing out eight assists for the Bears. Forward Ibu Yamazaki added 18 points. The Buffs were led by Johnson with 25 points, with Hargress adding on 18. 

The game started tight with both teams tying the game at five apiece before Denker fired off a quick five points. The Buffaloes didn't let the game get away from them. Breakout freshman guard Isaiah Johnson powered the Buffs to within one himself after an and-one. 

The Buffs tied the game up after two free throws from Johnson. The Bears kept their lead through the majority of the first half thanks to Denker’s ten points, but Johnson willed his way to the basket for another and-one. The first half ended with a score of 37-35 in favor of UNC.

The Buffaloes came out firing in the second half, a 6-0 run capped off by a fastbreak dunk by forward Bangot Dak. Neither team was able to create any separation, with the biggest lead from both teams being three points.

After guard Barrington Hargress made a tough layup, the Buffalo faithful started to stand up and make noise, which caused Denker to commit a travel, putting the ball in Colorado’s hands with a four-point deficit to overcome.

The final three minutes unfolded chaotically, featuring two lead changes and several loose-ball scrambles. A missed three-pointer from Rancik appeared to seal the outcome, but Isaiah Johnson tracked down the rebound to give Colorado one last chance. Johnson launched a desperation attempt moments later, but the shot missed the rim, allowing Northern Colorado to regain possession. 

Denker put in both his free throws after a desperation foul from the Buffs and ended the game with a score of 86-81.

The Bears’ ability to dictate pace and exploit defensive breakdowns echoed a familiar issue for the Buffaloes, one that head coach Tad Boyle later summarized plainly.

“It’s the same stuff, just a different day," he said.

The Buffs take on the Arizona State Sun Devils (9-4) in the new year to tip off Big 12 play. The game will take place Jan. 3 at 3 p.m. MT (ESPN).