BOULDER – The CU Buffs women’s basketball team showcased a strong all-around performance in their 81-66 home-opening victory over Northern Colorado. This game highlighted CU’s defensive intensity, ball movement, and cohesive play, marking their second win of the season.

Led by Jade Masogayo, who scored 19 points and found her rhythm early, CU dominated in the paint, outscoring Northern Colorado 38-22. Speaking on her performance, Masogayo shared, “I’m the type of person that has early jitters, but with my teammates supporting me, I felt settled.” Her scoring set the tone for a Buffs team that capitalized on their opportunities, turning UNC’s 22 turnovers into 22 points.

Head Coach JR Payne praised the team’s unity and the strides they’ve made early in the season, noting, “This group, above any team I’ve ever coached, has poured into each other away from basketball.” Payne emphasized that the players’ off-court bonding has translated well to their on-court chemistry, as seen in their seamless ball movement and unselfish plays. Kindyll Wetta, who recorded a career-high 10 assists, exemplified this by creating scoring opportunities and setting the team up for success.

Northern Colorado showed resilience, closing CU’s lead at times, but CU’s control on the boards (outrebounding UNC 39-28) helped maintain their advantage. Reflecting on the team’s defensive pride, Johanna Teder noted, “We’re trying to be as aggressive as possible, and it’s paying off.” Payne echoed this sentiment, crediting CU’s defensive mindset as a key factor in sustaining their lead.

The Buffs also honored former CU coach Ceal Barry, celebrating her legacy with 2,161 fans in attendance—a sign of the strong local support for the program.

Looking ahead, CU will take their early-season momentum on the road, starting with Boise State on Sunday. Coach Payne acknowledged the upcoming challenges, especially for a team with several new players, but expressed confidence in their preparation, saying, “The tough schedule will help us be more prepared for Big 12 play.” While the Buffs’ performance was promising, sustaining shooting consistency remains an area to refine as they face tougher competition.