Frank Franklin II / AP)
Fast break
What went right: The Buffaloes displayed commendable grit, rallying from an 18-point deficit late in the first half to get within four late. CU went 18-for-19 at the free throw line.
What went wrong: CU struggled defensively, particularly early as Notre Dame hit 12 of its first 18 shots and went 18-for-33 in the first half. For the first time this season the Buffs were outrebounded (41-38).
Star of the game: Xavier Johnson. In his finest performance in four games since his return from a torn Achilles, the senior scored a game-high 23 points with seven rebounds, two assists, and no turnovers in 30 minutes.