The Colorado Buffaloes are going to Madison Square Garden and the NIT semifinals for the first time since 1991 following their 81-74 victory over the Kent St. Golden Flashes on Tuesday night. It was a much tougher second half as the Buffs were losing as late as five minutes left in the game. However, the Buffs went on a 15-7 run to end the game and pick up the victory.
Alec Burks finished with another 25-point game for the Buffs, as well as 10 rebounds, four assists and four steals. He was treated with IV fluids at halftime. Andre Roberson played a key role off the bench with his 13 points and 12 rebounds, a freshman who has been outstanding this entire season. Marcus Relphorde and Cory Higgins added 17 points and 13 points, respectively.
The Buffs didn't have much of an answer for Kent State's Justin Greene, who scored 20 points, grabbed seven boards and distributed the ball for six assists. He shot 9-of-13 from the line. Rodriquez Sherman had 12 points but also fouled out of the game late in the second half. Michael Porrini and Randal Holt scored 14 points and 11 points each.
In 1991, the Buffs played Oklahoma in the semifinals and lost, 88-78, but won the third-place game against Massachusetts, 98-91. This time they will face the winner of No. 1 Alabama-No. 2 Miami (Fl.) on March 29.