Although the Buffaloes put up a good fight against No. 16 USC on Thursday night, critical turnovers and poor offensive production were the ultimate deciders in the loss.
Colorado was able to hold the Trojans down throughout the evening, with a tied score at halftime and a five-point lead late in the second half. However, USC took control over the final minutes of the game and pulled through with a slim victory.
Sophomore guard Nique Clifford got his first career start Thursday night with the loss of senior guard Elijah Parquet to a lower leg injury. Clifford added quality defense and five points, including a dunk that electrified the crowd at the CU Events Center.