Two takeaways from Colorado's 81-45 win over Northern Colorado

BOULDER — In took a few games, but the Colorado Buffaloes seem to have found their identity during the 81-45 victory over the Northern Colorado Bears.

While UNC does not have the size or athleticism like teams within the Pac-12, Colorado’s ability to assert its dominance in the paint was a sight for sore eyes. The Buffs nearly doubled their point total from last week’s loss while improving dramatically in shooting from the field and from deep.

Again, the Bears did not pose a threat like conference opponents will in a few weeks. But the Buffs’ performance should not be discounted as they produced their most complete game of the season.

Here are a few key takeaways from Colorado’s win.

The Buffs finally worked the ball inside-out

It felt like a long time coming, but Colorado found its identity in the low-post.

With that, Evan Battey had his coming-out party.

Although the arena was without fans, Battey still found his confidence on his home court. He was 5-7 from the floor for 14 points and led the team with eight rebounds. He looked comfortable working inside while also growing more aggressive on the glass as the game progressed.

While Battey leaped forward in his production, Dallas Walton simply continued his impressive season. Tonight, he was 4-6 from the field–including a 3-pointer–for 12 points, four rebounds, and a game-high three blocks. Walton had his way with the smaller Bear defenders, scoring points on dunks, jump shots, and post-hooks.

The key to this Colorado team is their depth at each position, and tonight was no different.

Jeriah Horne was incredibly efficient, scoring nine points and grabbing five rebounds. Freshman Jabari Walker continued his trend of making high-energy plays as he had a great put-back dunk en route to three points and four rebounds.

On the whole, Colorado was able to use its size to create open looks. By working the ball inside, the Buffs opened passing lanes around the arc. The Buffs did a great job moving off-ball on offense, leading to a sensational night from their senior star.

Wright highlights excellent night from guards

There are too many words to describe McKinley Wright, but they can be summed up in one: special.

Tonight, the broadcast crew with Pac-12 Networks mentioned how coach Tad Boyle called Wright a “once in a career player;” he played just like it. Wright scored 19 points tonight on 80% shooting, including 75% from deep. He also notched seven assists and five rebounds with just one turnover. 

While he struggled against Tennessee, Wright was able to find his footing in the midrange early and often. He, as well as the other guards, continued to move off-ball and pass frequently, opening up driving lanes and open looks.

Speaking of those other guards, Keeshawn Barthelemy and Eli Parquet both had solid nights offensively. However, the brightest spot came from D’Shawn Schwartz, as he looked more comfortable in his second outing. He grabbed three rebounds, and he hit the first shot of his season on a 3-pointer late in the second half. The faster Schwartz gets healthy and back to normal, the higher Colorado’s ceiling will rise.

Again, tonight was the most complete game this season from the Buffaloes. Now, they will look to carry that momentum forward in their Wednesday matchup against Omaha.

Tip-off is at 3:00 p.m. MST, with a DNVR Buffs live postgame showing coming shortly after the final whistle.