STATELINE, Nev. – In a one-sided game of catch-up, The Colorado Buffaloes (3-1) triumphed over The Nevada Wolfpack (1-2) by a score of 75-59 in the inaugural “Tahoe Tip Off” on Tuesday. Colorado had the privilege of securing the first win at the newly constructed Tahoe Blue Event Center.
Head coach JR Payne offered insight into areas in need of improvement after a tough loss to Boise State on Sunday.
"We need to get better at doing the basics," Payne stated. She then pointed specifically to team "execution" and "spacing" as areas of focus.
The Wolfpack got off to a rocky start, with a foul and a missed 3-pointer. This allowed the Buffs to swoop in and secure two layups within the first couple of minutes. Just two points ahead, Colorado subbed players in and out to keep the leg up.
Senior Buffaloes guard Johanna Teder managed to collect a pair of successful 3-pointers and takeaways, contributing to an 11-point lead with two minutes left in the first quarter. Nevada called a timeout, after which they were able to make a 3-pointer and tack on three free throws. The Buffs took the first quarter with a score of 18-15.
The second quarter saw Nevada trying to catch up, while Colorado attacked the basket to counter. The Wolfpack managed to turn over the ball just a few times, only to be stolen by the Buffs thrice. By halftime, Colorado was up 34-26.
Fresh into the third quarter, forward Sara-Rose Smith shot two successful 3-pointers, an example followed by Kindyll Wetta and Lior Garzon which gave the Buffs four consecutive 3-point makes. Nevada lagged behind, unable to match Colorado’s offense and ending the third quarter with a score of 58-43.
By the end of the fourth quarter, the Buffs were up 24 points, leading in nearly every category. The Wolfpack was able to make a few free throws, jumpers, and 3-pointers, but ultimately were no match for the Buffs.
In the end, Colorado showed up to log 12 takeaways, 13 assists, and six steals. Nevada matched their turnover count but was shy with 10 assists and just three steals. While Nevada showed a 38.5% field goal accuracy, Colorado came on top at 47.4%. Lacking slightly on defense, the Buffs allowed the Wolfpack to score with some consistency. However, Nevada could not compete with the Buffs' relentless offense.
After the game, Coach Payne talked about strategy. Simplicity and focus were key to the victory.
"We had to limit our options and be better at a few things instead of average at a bunch of things," Payne noted.
The Buffs have time to celebrate, rest and train before their next game against the Southern University Jaguars (0-4) on Nov. 17 at 5 pm MT in the CU Events Center.
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