money Colorado men’s basketball NIT recap: Buffs advance with win over Seton Hall
Colorado did just enough to extend its season at least one more game by defeating Seton Hall in the first round of the NIT on Tuesday.
After falling behind 47-42 midway through the second-half, another loss in an NIT opener seemed immenent, but the Buffaloes rallied and were able to get a defensive stop in the game’s waning seconds to hold off the Pirates, 65-64, in Boulder.
Once again, the Buffs found their touch from 3-point territory, nailing 10-of-18, including three from Tristan da Silva and four from Ethan Wright, who finished with a season-high 18 points.
Colorado’s bench outscored the Pirates 23-8 and Luke O’Brien pulled down a career-high 14 boards. Julian Hammond III was also strong once again in KJ Simpson’s absence with 10 points, five assists and just one turnover.
“We don’t want to stop,” Wright sakd. “For me and Jalen (Gabbidon), this could have been our last game and I think we played like it. All the guys are the same way. They want to be playing and that’s kind of the mindset we have. We’re just really lucky to be playing in March so we’re going to take that seriously.”
In the second round on either Saturday or Sunday, the Buffs will face the winner of Wednesday’s game between New Mexico and Utah Valley. Another game at the CU Events Center would come only if Utah Valley beats the Lobos.
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