The Battle of the Buffs: CU vs. Gonzaga in the WBIT Showdown
March 23, 2025, 3:40 pm
The stage is set. The Colorado Buffaloes women’s basketball team is ready to clash with the Gonzaga Bulldogs in the second round of the Women’s Basketball Invitational Tournament (WBIT). This matchup is more than just a game; it’s a story of friendship, rivalry, and redemption.
The Buffs enter this contest with a record of 21-12. They are a seasoned squad, led by the experienced senior point guard Kindyll Wetta. Wetta is the engine of this team, orchestrating plays and setting the tempo. Alongside her, junior forward Jade Masogayo brings athleticism and skill. The team also boasts a promising group of freshmen, eager to make their mark on the postseason stage.
On the other side, Gonzaga stands at 23-10. Their roster features standout players like Yvonne Ejim, a senior forward who is a scoring machine. Ejim averages over 20 points per game, making her a focal point for the Bulldogs. Freshman Allie Turner adds depth and energy, showcasing her talent as a first-year player. This blend of experience and youth makes Gonzaga a formidable opponent.
The history between these two teams adds an intriguing layer to the matchup. Colorado holds a 3-0 all-time record against Gonzaga, but the last meeting was in 2008. Since then, both programs have evolved. The Buffs have had their share of ups and downs, while Gonzaga has consistently been a powerhouse in women’s basketball.
Head coach JR Payne knows the significance of this game. She has a personal connection with Gonzaga’s coach, Lisa Fortier. Their friendship dates back to their time together at Gonzaga in the early 2000s. This familiarity brings an emotional edge to the game. It’s not just about winning; it’s about pride and respect.
The stakes are high. The winner will advance to the quarterfinals, facing either Missouri State or Minnesota. For the Buffs, a victory would mean another home game at the CU Events Center, a place where they have thrived in postseason play. They boast a strong home record, making it a fortress for their fans.
The Buffs have shown resilience throughout the season. They’ve faced tough opponents and navigated through challenges. Their journey has been marked by growth and determination. This game is an opportunity to showcase their hard work and commitment.
Gonzaga, too, has faced adversity. They entered the WCC tournament as the top seed but fell short in the semifinals. That loss stings, and they will be looking to prove themselves in this tournament. The Bulldogs are hungry for redemption, and they will come out swinging.
As the clock ticks down to tip-off, the excitement builds. Fans will fill the stands, creating an electric atmosphere. The players will feel the weight of their school’s legacy on their shoulders. This is what college basketball is all about—the passion, the rivalry, the chance to shine on a big stage.
The matchup will be a battle of styles. Colorado’s veteran presence will clash with Gonzaga’s dynamic playmakers. The Buffs will rely on their experience and teamwork, while the Bulldogs will look to exploit mismatches and create scoring opportunities. It’s a chess match, with each coach strategizing to outsmart the other.
Key players will need to step up. For Colorado, Wetta’s leadership will be crucial. She must control the pace and distribute the ball effectively. Masogayo’s scoring ability will also be vital. If she can find her rhythm early, it could set the tone for the Buffs.
On the Gonzaga side, Ejim will be the player to watch. Her ability to score in various ways makes her a constant threat. If she gets hot, it could spell trouble for Colorado. Turner’s playmaking will also be essential. She must create opportunities for her teammates while managing the game.
As the teams prepare to take the court, the anticipation is palpable. This game is more than just a contest; it’s a chance for both programs to showcase their talent and determination. The winner will move on, but the journey to this point has already been a testament to their hard work.
In the end, it’s about more than just the scoreboard. It’s about the memories created, the friendships forged, and the legacy left behind. Whether it’s the Buffs or the Bulldogs who emerge victorious, this game will be etched in the history of both programs.
As the players lace up their shoes and the fans take their seats, one thing is clear: this is more than just a game. It’s a battle for pride, a test of skill, and a celebration of the sport. The CU Buffs and Gonzaga Bulldogs are ready to write the next chapter in their storied rivalry. Let the game begin.
The Buffs enter this contest with a record of 21-12. They are a seasoned squad, led by the experienced senior point guard Kindyll Wetta. Wetta is the engine of this team, orchestrating plays and setting the tempo. Alongside her, junior forward Jade Masogayo brings athleticism and skill. The team also boasts a promising group of freshmen, eager to make their mark on the postseason stage.
On the other side, Gonzaga stands at 23-10. Their roster features standout players like Yvonne Ejim, a senior forward who is a scoring machine. Ejim averages over 20 points per game, making her a focal point for the Bulldogs. Freshman Allie Turner adds depth and energy, showcasing her talent as a first-year player. This blend of experience and youth makes Gonzaga a formidable opponent.
The history between these two teams adds an intriguing layer to the matchup. Colorado holds a 3-0 all-time record against Gonzaga, but the last meeting was in 2008. Since then, both programs have evolved. The Buffs have had their share of ups and downs, while Gonzaga has consistently been a powerhouse in women’s basketball.
Head coach JR Payne knows the significance of this game. She has a personal connection with Gonzaga’s coach, Lisa Fortier. Their friendship dates back to their time together at Gonzaga in the early 2000s. This familiarity brings an emotional edge to the game. It’s not just about winning; it’s about pride and respect.
The stakes are high. The winner will advance to the quarterfinals, facing either Missouri State or Minnesota. For the Buffs, a victory would mean another home game at the CU Events Center, a place where they have thrived in postseason play. They boast a strong home record, making it a fortress for their fans.
The Buffs have shown resilience throughout the season. They’ve faced tough opponents and navigated through challenges. Their journey has been marked by growth and determination. This game is an opportunity to showcase their hard work and commitment.
Gonzaga, too, has faced adversity. They entered the WCC tournament as the top seed but fell short in the semifinals. That loss stings, and they will be looking to prove themselves in this tournament. The Bulldogs are hungry for redemption, and they will come out swinging.
As the clock ticks down to tip-off, the excitement builds. Fans will fill the stands, creating an electric atmosphere. The players will feel the weight of their school’s legacy on their shoulders. This is what college basketball is all about—the passion, the rivalry, the chance to shine on a big stage.
The matchup will be a battle of styles. Colorado’s veteran presence will clash with Gonzaga’s dynamic playmakers. The Buffs will rely on their experience and teamwork, while the Bulldogs will look to exploit mismatches and create scoring opportunities. It’s a chess match, with each coach strategizing to outsmart the other.
Key players will need to step up. For Colorado, Wetta’s leadership will be crucial. She must control the pace and distribute the ball effectively. Masogayo’s scoring ability will also be vital. If she can find her rhythm early, it could set the tone for the Buffs.
On the Gonzaga side, Ejim will be the player to watch. Her ability to score in various ways makes her a constant threat. If she gets hot, it could spell trouble for Colorado. Turner’s playmaking will also be essential. She must create opportunities for her teammates while managing the game.
As the teams prepare to take the court, the anticipation is palpable. This game is more than just a contest; it’s a chance for both programs to showcase their talent and determination. The winner will move on, but the journey to this point has already been a testament to their hard work.
In the end, it’s about more than just the scoreboard. It’s about the memories created, the friendships forged, and the legacy left behind. Whether it’s the Buffs or the Bulldogs who emerge victorious, this game will be etched in the history of both programs.
As the players lace up their shoes and the fans take their seats, one thing is clear: this is more than just a game. It’s a battle for pride, a test of skill, and a celebration of the sport. The CU Buffs and Gonzaga Bulldogs are ready to write the next chapter in their storied rivalry. Let the game begin.