Colorado Buffaloes vs West Virginia Mountaineers Picks and Predictions January 12th 2025

No. 21 West Virginia Looks to Bounce Back in Road Clash Against Colorado

West Virginia aims for recovery after a tough loss, while Colorado seeks a breakthrough in Big 12 play.

West Virginia’s Road to Recovery

West Virginia’s recent loss to Arizona highlighted the team’s vulnerability, but it also serves as a stark reminder of the intensity required to excel in the Big 12. The Mountaineers had previously demonstrated their capabilities with an impressive road victory against then-No. 7 Kansas and a dominant home performance against Oklahoma State. However, Arizona’s decisive win exposed gaps that need addressing before facing a Colorado squad eager to defend its home court.

The Mountaineers are also contending with injuries to key players. Tucker DeVries, Jayden Stone, KJ Tenner, and a limited Amani Hansberry all missed or struggled during the Arizona game, leaving coach Darian DeVries to prepare for various lineup possibilities. Despite the challenges, Javon Small, averaging 19.4 points per game, continues to lead the team offensively, supported by DeVries at 14.9 points and Hansberry at 10.1 points.

DeVries acknowledges the complexities of managing injuries but remains focused. “It does take some of the reps away when you have to get multiple guys ready at multiple positions,” he said. “But it’s something you have to do to get everybody ready. We’ll adjust with the lineup we have available on game day.”

Colorado’s Home-Court Determination

Colorado, sitting at 9-5 overall and 0-3 in the Big 12, has faced its own set of struggles. Despite their challenges, the Buffaloes boast a strong home record, winning their first eight games in Boulder before falling to No. 3 Iowa State. Their recent performances, including a heart-wrenching 75-74 loss to UCF, have underscored the need for greater consistency and reduced turnovers.

Coach Tad Boyle emphasized the importance of fundamentals after his team committed 22 turnovers against UCF. “Whether it’s completing passes, footwork, or not leaving your feet to pass the ball, you can’t make those mistakes in this league, especially as a guard,” Boyle said.

Julian Hammond III has been a bright spot for Colorado, averaging 13.6 points per game and notching a career-high 26 points against UCF. Hammond acknowledges the urgency of turning the season around, particularly in home games. “We need to win these next few games, especially at home, no matter who the opponent is,” he said.

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A Clash of Strategies and Resilience

Both teams enter Sunday’s matchup with pressing needs to find their rhythm in the Big 12. West Virginia seeks to overcome injuries and capitalize on its talent depth, while Colorado aims to defend its home turf and reverse a challenging start to conference play. The Buffaloes’ scoring trio—Hammond, Andrej Jakimovski (11.4 points per game), and Elijah Malone (10.9 points)—will be pivotal against a Mountaineers squad led by Small’s dynamic scoring ability.

The outcome of this game could have significant implications for both teams’ trajectories in the Big 12. West Virginia’s ability to execute on the road and Colorado’s determination to protect its court will set the stage for a competitive showdown in Boulder.

Both teams have a lot to prove, making Sunday’s game a compelling battle of strategy, skill, and perseverance.