CU Buffs lock up invite to NCAA tournament Big Dance with 12 point win over Kansas State

Cory Higgins.

Apparently, no one ever told the CU Buffs how hard it is to beat a quality team three times in the same season. Because moments ago, they did just that, pulling away late to defeat Kansas State by twelve points in the Big 12 tournament quarter finals. An invitation to go crazy as part of March Madness wasn't immediately handed out following the final whistle, but there was no need. The Buffs will be dancing soon enough -- and man, did they earn their ticket.

Conventional wisdom holds that Alec Burks is far and away the best Buff, and his play offers plenty of evidence to support this theory. But time and again this season, supporting actors have stepped up to play leading roles, and that happened again today.

Cory Higgins was an offensive force, outscoring the typically prolific Burks and consistently frustrating K-State with his timely shooting, especially in the second half. Then, during crunch time, freshman André Roberson made his presence felt defensively, coming up with a huge block and an offensive rebound that swiped possessions from the Wildcats.

The Buffs next face Kansas, who they played tough last time around. But no matter what happens in that game, the NCAA selection committee can't possibly reject CU. Just like the UNC Bears, their neighbors to the north, they're going to take part in what may be the most exciting annual sporting event in America. Congrats.

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