CU Buffs Freshman Alon Michaeli Shines in 97-88 Victory

UPDATE: In a thrilling display of talent, freshman Alon Michaeli led the Colorado Buffaloes to a decisive 97-88 victory over Providence on November 10, 2023, at the CU Events Center. Michaeli, who signed late and missed his first game due to an ankle injury, exploded off the bench, scoring 20 points and grabbing 6 rebounds in just 22 minutes.

This performance marks Michaeli as the second CU player to score at least 20 points off the bench within the first three games of the season. His impressive shooting, going 7-for-15 from the floor and a perfect 5-for-5 at the free-throw line, showcased his readiness to make up for lost time.

“We know Alon can be a great player here,” said CU head coach Tad Boyle. “Obviously he didn’t play the first game. Had a twisted ankle. But tonight he finished strong and made his free throws.”

Michaeli’s breakout game comes after limited minutes in his debut against Eastern Washington, where he played just 16 minutes. His performance against Providence was not only a personal triumph but a significant boost for the team, as they overcame a sluggish start to secure the win.

Providence head coach Kim English acknowledged Michaeli’s capabilities, saying, “We knew exactly what he could do. He played really, really well.” His assessment highlights the challenges teams face when competing against skilled international players like Michaeli.

Adding to the drama, Coach Boyle faced health issues leading up to the game, missing practice and the shoot-around. He credits his coaching staff and players for stepping up in his absence. “This win had nothing to do with Tad Boyle. It had everything to do with our players and coaching staff,” he stated.

Despite a shaky start, where Providence fell behind 9-2, they managed to reclaim a brief lead in the second half. However, the Buffs’ fast-paced play and resilience proved too much for the Friars. “Credit the Buffs. They played with incredible tempo,” English said, reflecting on his team’s struggle.

Notably, the Buffs improved their free-throw shooting significantly, hitting 23-for-27 overall, a dramatic rise from their previous games. Freshman guard Isaiah Johnson excelled, sinking 8-for-9, bringing his season average to .889.

As the CU Buffs celebrate this important victory, all eyes will be on Michaeli and the team’s next matchup. Fans are eager to see if this performance marks the beginning of a standout season for the freshman and the Buffs.

Stay tuned for further developments as the season progresses, and don’t miss the next game where the Buffs aim to build on this momentum!