Rams Triumph on Senior Night, Set Sights on Mountain West Tournament

FORT COLLINS, Colo. — The Colorado State men’s basketball team celebrated senior night in style, dominating San Jose State with an 83-56 victory on March 4, 2025, at Moby Arena. This commanding win secured their sixth season sweep and established a program-record 15th victory in conference play.

“I think it’s cool anytime our seniors can go out like that,” Rams head coach Nico Medved said. “They got an opportunity for the ovation at the end of the game. But with the 15 conference wins, just to reflect on where this team was in the middle of December—then to think they would set the record for conference wins—is pretty remarkable.”

Colorado State honored four seniors: Clifford, Lake, Morton, and Born. Clifford led the team with 15 points, while Lake contributed 12. Morton made a significant shot, nailing his second three-pointer of the season, and Born showcased his toughness by taking a hit to the face while scoring five points.

“It was definitely emotional,” Lake said. “I was trying to take it one day at a time, but when I saw the crowd, seeing the fans—these four years have been really special. Not only on the court but off it as well. It’s a family environment. These guys—the teammates and coaches—have helped me in so many ways.”

The evening was not just about celebration; it highlighted the resilience of the Rams, who struggled during the early season months of December. Medved spoke to the importance of navigating adversity. “A mentor of mine told me when I first became a head coach, ‘The first thing you learn is you have to have a group you can lose with first,’” he said. “What it really means is you’re going to have adversity. You have to have a group of guys that you can go through that with, and that are going to continue to fight and grow.”

Against the Spartans, the Rams demonstrated their growth, shooting 56% from the field while limiting San Jose State to only 40%. Their improved defensive intensity, swift ball movement, and effective finish at the rim underscored their development since December.

“I think we’re really dangerous,” said senior Lake. “Especially when we’re playing together on offense and, most importantly, bringing that defensive intensity. Getting deflections, steals, turnovers—that’s when we’re at our best. When we’re playing well, we’re going to be tough to beat.”

As the Rams gear up for the postseason, they know that rankings and records do not define their journey—resilience does. Medved reflected on last season’s expectations and how his team has grown. “You look at last year, we had such an unbelievable start, but the league was such a bear. Every game just felt like the weight of the world. I think this team kind of let that go and started focusing on what they could control.”

Heading into March, Medved emphasized the importance of remaining focused, stating, “It’s been refreshing to not look at all those things and just stay in the moment. I think it’s helped the team—and the coaches too.”

The Rams are prepared for the challenges ahead as they set their sights on the Mountain West tournament. With a strong showing in the weeks ahead, they intend to prove they are ready for any competition that comes their way.