Colorado opened its 2025–26 season with a resilient 84–78 win over Montana State on Monday night, overcoming a sluggish first half thanks to a dominant performance from true freshman Isaiah Johnson.

Johnson, who was scoreless in the first half, erupted for 24 points after halftime—hitting clutch free throws in the final minute to seal the win at the CU Events Center. The Buffaloes trailed by seven early in the second half before Johnson ignited the offense, scoring 16 of CU’s final 18 points.

“I just kept wanting to be aggressive,” Johnson said. “My teammates and coaches told me to keep attacking, even though I struggled in the first half.”

The victory keeps head coach Tad Boyle perfect in home openers, improving Colorado to 16–0 in those games and 14–2 overall in season openers under his tenure.

Johnson led a balanced attack that saw four other Buffs reach double figures, including transfer guard Barrington Hargress and returners Bangot Dak, Elijah Malone, and Sebastian Rancik. Malone posted a 13-point, 13-rebound double-double—his first of the season and second at CU.

Boyle praised the team’s freshman group, which saw five players make their collegiate debuts. “This freshman class is going to be special,” Boyle said. “We’ve got to hold them together. I’d rather grow and develop after a win than after a loss.”

Patrick McMahon led Montana State with 24 points, while the Bobcats shot 46 percent from the field. Colorado countered with a 62 percent second-half effort after hitting just 42 percent before the break.

The Buffs will look to carry the momentum into their next matchup later this week as they continue a three-game homestand to open the season.