Full Breakdown
Colorado Buffaloes Defeat San Francisco Dons in Acrisure Holiday Classic
11/28/2025, 3:33:02 PM
Game Overview
The Colorado Buffaloes secured a 79-69 victory over the San Francisco Dons on November 27, 2025, during the Acrisure Holiday Classic held in Palm Desert, California. This win marks Colorado's sixth consecutive victory, improving their record to 6-0, while San Francisco falls to 5-2.
Key Moments and Performance
Isaiah Johnson led Colorado with 17 points, scoring 12 of those in the second half. Barrington Hargress contributed 15 points, while Elijah Malone and Bangot Dak each added 13 points. The Buffaloes took control of the game in the second half, with Johnson's three-point play giving them a decisive lead at 54-51 with 11:47 remaining. Colorado extended their lead to as much as 11 points late in the game, thanks to a series of critical plays, including a lob from Hargress to Dak.
San Francisco had a strong start, leading 37-35 at halftime, fueled by Junjie Wang and Ryan Beasley, who each scored 13 points. However, the Dons struggled in the second half, committing 13 turnovers that Colorado capitalized on, scoring 18 points off those mistakes.
Statistical Highlights
- Field Goals: Colorado shot 47.8% (33-of-69), while San Francisco shot 44.1% (26-of-59).
- Three-Point Shooting: Colorado made 8 of 20 attempts (40%), compared to San Francisco's 10 of 27 (37%).
- Turnovers: Colorado recorded only 8 turnovers, while San Francisco had 13.
- Rebounds: Both teams finished with 35 rebounds, but Colorado's defense limited San Francisco's second-chance opportunities.
Official Statements & Responses
Head coach Tad Boyle praised his team's resilience and ability to adapt, stating, "Our guys showed poise and confidence, especially in the second half." He highlighted the importance of Johnson and Hargress in executing the game plan effectively.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the loss, San Francisco's coach noted the team's potential, emphasizing that their turnovers were a critical factor in the defeat. He remarked, "We had opportunities, but we need to take better care of the ball against strong teams like Colorado."
What's Next
Following this matchup, Colorado will face the Washington Huskies, who defeated Nevada in the other semifinal of the tournament. This championship game is scheduled for November 28, 2025, at 2:30 PM MT, and will be broadcast on CBS Sports Network.
Conclusion
The Colorado Buffaloes demonstrated their offensive prowess and defensive tenacity in their victory over the San Francisco Dons, setting the stage for a competitive championship game in the Acrisure Holiday Classic.