Houston Downs Colorado, Extending Buffaloes’ Losing Streak to 12 Games

BOULDER, Colo. — J’Wan Roberts scored a game-high 20 points, leading No. 5 Houston to a 69-59 victory over Colorado on Saturday, marking the Buffaloes’ 12th consecutive loss in the Big 12.

Roberts, who netted 13 of his points in the second half, played a crucial role as Houston maintained its strong position in the conference with an 11-1 record and an overall record of 19-4. Despite an early 9-0 lead by the Cougars, the Buffaloes (9-14, 0-12) fought back, showcasing both defensive resilience and a strategic offensive plan.

Colorado struggled initially but used tight defense and careful ball control to chip away at Houston’s lead. A pivotal moment occurred with three minutes remaining when a travel call against Houston was overturned after a review, allowing the Cougars to extend their lead with two critical short-range baskets from Roberts.

Julian Hammond III led the Buffaloes with 22 points, including five three-pointers. Despite his efforts, the team’s overall performance led to their first 12-game losing streak since the 2008-09 season.

Houston’s coach Kelvin Sampson noted that this win was especially significant as it marked his first victory over Colorado since taking the helm at Houston, extending his prior success against the Buffaloes during his tenure at Oklahoma.

“They’re right there. I’ve been there. My third year as a head coach, I coached a team that lost 18 in a row,” Sampson said. “All of these experiences make you who you are. You don’t lose at anything until you quit.”

Houston controlled key statistics, out-rebounding Colorado 38-26 and outscoring them in the paint, 42-20. The Cougars also capitalized on second-chance opportunities, scoring 18 points off offensive rebounds.

Throughout the game, Colorado’s head coach Tad Boyle praised his team’s effort given their current struggles. He paired that with a call for consistency in their performance to eventually break the losing streak.

“We’ve got to build on this effort, become more consistent through a 40-minute game, and we will be rewarded,” Boyle said. “Houston is the gold standard — and not just in the Big 12 — I would say nationally when it comes to defense and rebounding.”

The Buffaloes will aim to end their skid as they prepare to face No. 16 Kansas on Tuesday at Allen Fieldhouse, while Houston will look to continue their winning ways when they host Baylor on Monday.