Simpson, da Silva leads Buffs past Bears 88-78

The Colorado starters combined for 49 points in the victory over Cal

Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Colorado had four players in double figures as they beat Cal 88-78 on Wednesday at the CU Events Center.

KJ Simpson led the way with 27 points, seven rebounds, and eight assists. Tristan da Silva had 22 points, seven rebounds and six assists. J'Vonne Hadley added 13 and Eddie Lampkin Jr. put up 12.

The Buffs (19-9, 10-7 Pac-12) improved to 15-1 at home this season. While the Bears (13-16, 9-9 Pac-12) watched a three-game win streak get snapped. Jaylon Tyson led Cal with 25 points.

Tad Boyle's team took the lead early and didn't let up. The Buffs maintained a double digit margin unlike the first time these two teams met in Berkeley. The Bears cut into the deficit but couldn't get close. Thanks to Simpson who took over down the stretch.

The Buffs shot 29-for-58 (50 percent) from the floor and 23-for-29 from the free throw line. Meanwhile, the Bears missed eleven more shots in the game, including going just 9-for-31 from beyond the arc.

There were a handful of NBA scouts in attendance to watch Cody Williams, who was unfortunately out due to injury. Nonetheless, Simpson and da Silva showed off when it mattered for the Buffs. 

"Cal's a heck of a team but I thought our guys locked in as the second half wore on," Boyle said. "I thought the pace of the game was key. We're playing at altitude, we're  in good shape and it takes its toll. Tristan was phenomenal in the first half and I can't say enough about KJ in that second half."

The victory was huge for the Buffs' NCAA tournament hopes and puts them on the bubble going into the final regular season games. They also remain in contention for a top-four Pac-12 finish, which will secure a first-round bye in the conference tournament. 

UP NEXT:

Colorado plays home finale Sunday when they host Stanford (9 p.m. ET/FS1). They’ll wrap up the season on the road with the Oregon teams before the Pac-12 tournament in Las Vegas running from March 13-16.