CU Buffs Fall Short to No. 22 Louisville in Nail-Biting 74-68 Loss

URGENT UPDATE: The Colorado Buffaloes women’s basketball team faced a tough defeat against the No. 22 Louisville Cardinals, losing 74-68 in a nail-biter at the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville, Kentucky, on November 12, 2025.

In a game filled with highs and lows, Colorado led for more than 25 minutes but faltered in the final quarter, managing only 2-for-15 shooting and committing five turnovers. Coach JR Payne expressed disappointment but also noted the potential for growth, stating, “I’m really proud of a lot of things that we did tonight.” This loss serves as a critical learning opportunity for the young Buffs squad.

Star player Zyanna Walker, who previously played for Louisville, shone brightly off the bench, scoring a career-high 19 points, alongside seven rebounds and four assists. Walker reflected on the emotional weight of the game, saying, “I wanted to go back and beat my old coach.” Her performance highlighted not just her skills but also her drive to succeed.

Despite Colorado’s strong start, leading by as many as 11 points in the first quarter, momentum shifted in the second half. The Buffs struggled to maintain their lead, with a critical scoreless stretch in the fourth quarter that allowed Louisville to seize control. Walker’s late layup brought Colorado within two points at 70-68, but the Cardinals sealed their victory with free throws down the stretch.

Another standout for the Buffs was Anaelle Dutat, who recorded her second consecutive double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds before fouling out in the final moments. Her consistent performance has been a bright spot for the team early in the season.

Looking ahead, the Buffs (1-1) will host Portland State this Sunday at 1 p.m. at the CU Events Center, aiming to bounce back from this tough loss. The upcoming game presents a crucial chance for Colorado to regroup and build upon the positives from their encounter with Louisville.

As the Buffaloes continue to develop their young roster, their resilience and determination will be key factors to watch in the coming games. Coach Payne emphasized the importance of learning from tough environments like this one, stating, “These are huge growth opportunities, and we’re going to lean into that growth.” Fans can expect an exciting season ahead as the team strives to convert these experiences into victories.