The Colorado Buffaloes are making a run at the Big 12 Tournament championship following their quarterfinal round victory (and third of the season) over the Kansas St. Wildcats, 87-75. This victory rests on the play of Alec Burks and Cory Higgins, who combined to score 52 of the teams' 87 points. Andre Roberson was the key contributor off the bench for the Buffs with 11 points, 14 rebounds and three blocks.
Kansas St. brought the game within one point, 70-69, with two minutes and change left to play, but Marcus Relphorde hit a three to give the Buffs a bit wider lead. Kansas State went into foul mode, which allowed the Buffs a sizable 12-point victory.
Alec Burks finished with 24 points, seven rebounds, four assists and two fouls. Cory Higgins had a game-high 28 points on 10-of-15 from the field and 7-of-9 from the free throw line.
The Buffs had to contend with Curtis Kelly all day as he led the Wildcats with 18 points and 10 rebounds. Jacob Pullen had 18 points to go with his seven assists. Will Spradling added 14 points off the bench.
According to Chris Dempsey of the Denver Post, this is the first time the Buffs have advanced past the second round of the Big 12 tournament.
The Buffs will face the Kansas Jayhawks on Friday at 5:00 p.m. MT.