Dramatic Buffs Comeback Falls Short in Colorado Showdown

basketball Dec 8, 2025

Colorado Buffaloes’ intense second-half rally sees them narrowly losing to Colorado State in a thrilling basketball match. According to University of Colorado Athletics, Saturday’s game at Moby Arena was an electrifying contest that showcased both teams’ strengths, yet left Colorado with its first loss of the season.

The Heated Contest

Trailing by seven at halftime, the Buffaloes put on a remarkable display with a 16-0 run that snatched the lead at 64-62. Freshman standout Isaiah Johnson, impressively contributing 13 second-half points, was instrumental to the Buffs’ performance. “What was frustrating to me is we came back and took control of the game,” head coach Tad Boyle said post-match, emphasizing the team’s competitive spirit.

Offensive Highlights

Both teams exhibited phenomenal shooting capabilities, with Colorado shooting an impressive 62% from the field. However, CSU’s 18 three-pointers, a season-high, proved crucial. Josh Pascarelli’s 26-point performance, including 8-of-10 from deep, gave the home team the vital edge, something Boyle acknowledged: “We knew that Pascarelli and his teammates could hurt us from the arc.”

Key Players

Alon Michaeli led the Buffaloes with 19 points, supported by Isaiah Johnson, Sebastian Rancik, and Bangot Dak, all scoring in double digits. Despite Colorado’s superior play under the basket, the barrage of three-pointers from Colorado State was decisive.

The Closing Moments

As the clock wound down, the game hung perilously in the balance with CSU leading by a slender margin. Johnson’s timely steals and offensive rebounds brought the score level at 78 with just under four minutes to go. Yet, it was Pascarelli’s mid-range dagger shot that sealed CSU’s victory. “We can’t sustain it because we can’t get stops,” lamented Boyle as CSU clinched a 91-86 win.

What’s Next for the Buffs?

The Buffaloes are set to host UTSA next Saturday, seeking redemption and aiming to build on this spirited performance. With lessons learned in Fort Collins, fans eagerly await a riveting basketball showdown back at the CU Events Center.