Since their Feb. 15 loss to the UCLA Bruins, 64-60, the Colorado Buffaloes embarked on a defining run, winning 10 of their final 11 games before falling 81-77 to the No. 2 seed Marquette Golden Eagles on Sunday, March 24, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. Senior guard Tyler Kolek led the Golden Eagles with 21 points on 10-of-14 shooting, along with 11 assists. Marquette quickly established an 18-9 lead following a layup by Kolek with 13:06 left in the first half.
Photo Cred: Betting News
The Golden Eagles maintained their lead, but Colorado’s freshman forward Cody Williams cut Marquette’s advantage to 40-34 with a jumper at the 2:54 mark. Marquette extended their lead with a 5-0 run, highlighted by a three-pointer from guard Kam Jones, who had 16 points by halftime. In the second half, Colorado surged with a 10-2 run, led by forward Tristan Da Silva’s seven points. The game remained competitive, but Marquette consistently responded to Colorado’s challenges. With the game tied at 64 with 9:37 to go, Marquette edged ahead, maintaining a narrow lead despite Colorado’s efforts to even the score.
Colorado’s KJ Simpson missed a crucial three-pointer before Marquette’s Chase Ross hit a three with 2:52 left, securing the lead for Marquette. Williams cut the deficit to 79-77 with 21 seconds left, but Marquette’s David Joplin sealed the win with two free throws. Marquette was efficient offensively, shooting 67.9% in the first half and 61.8% overall. Colorado, despite a slow start, finished strong, particularly from beyond the arc. Both teams committed 12 turnovers.
Photo Cred: USA Today
Colorado (26-11) concluded its final Pac-12 season third, setting a program record with 26 wins. Simpson, with one year of eligibility left, averaged 19.7 points and showcased his talent throughout the season and tournament. Williams, expected to enter the NBA draft, and Da Silva delivered standout performances, contributing significantly to Colorado’s tournament run. Senior center Eddie Lampkin Jr. also had a notable tournament presence. Colorado transitions to the Big 12 next season.
Marquette (27-9), second in the Big East, secured a No. 2 seed in the NCAA tournament. Kolek’s return from injury bolstered the Golden Eagles’ performance, with significant contributions across the board. The team now looks to advance past the No. 11 seed NC State Wolfpack in Dallas for a spot in the Elite Eight, a feat not achieved since 2013.
