The Puerto Rico Tip-Off tournament opens on Thursday, and the Colorado Buffaloes brace for a matchup with last season's post-season NIT winner, the Wichita State Shockers at 5:30 pm MST on ESPNU. The game is a bit of a throwback for Buffaloes coach Tad Boyle, who spent six years as an assistant coach for Wichita State earlier in his coaching career. The matchup itself should be a good opportunity for Buffaloes fans to find out where the team stands.
The Ralphie Report, SB Nation's Colorado Buffaloes blog, offers some great analysis on today's game:
Prediction: 65-58 Shockers. This should be a physical, intense game. Outside of Booker, Colorado's bench is weak as of now. When Adams and Cain return, they should have a solid 8-man rotation. Until then, a successful starting five will not cut it against superior teams. Additionally, the Shockers' strength is their backcourt and that is Colorado's weakness. The key to the game is if the Buffs can play solid help defense and be strong on the boards. Also, if Carlon Brown can facilitate the offense and Roberson has a phenomenal game on the glass, the Buffs can win. Without strong defense and rebounding and a good offensive game from Brown, look for the Shockers to prevail.
Game date, time: 5:30 pm MST, Thursday, November 17th, 2011
Location: Coliseo de Puerto Rico in San Juan, Puerto Rico
TV channel: ESPNU, ESPN 3
For all your postgame coverage, be sure to visit The Ralphie Report, SB Nation's Colorado Buffaloes blog, and Wichita State fans can head to Mid Major Madness.