Colorado
9-18,2-14Big 12
Nebraska
16-12,8-8Big 12
Buffs Give Barry Win In Final Home Game
March 02, 2005 | Women's Basketball
Colorado earned its second conference win of the season, beating
The youthful Buffs didn't waste any time honoring their veteran coach by playing their best single half of the season in front of a season-high crowd of 4,423. Their 44 first-half points were the most they posted in a Big 12 conference game this season.
The Huskers (16-12, 8-8 Big 12) cut the deficit to two points late in the game, but ultimately couldn't overcome the 12-point lead
Several Buffs had season-defining games, led by departing senior guard Veronica Johns-Richardson who finished with 18 points and five assists. The other senior playing her last home game, forward Sarah Lini, finished with five points.
Taking advantage of their height differential, CU had their way in the paint, outscoring
Forward Jasmina Ilic chipped in 16 points and six rebounds in 18 minutes of action.
“This game was a very emotional game for me,” she said. “I saw some former players (in attendance) and that meant we couldn't lose this game. We wanted it more (than
The Buffs came into the game shooting 34 percent in their last six contests, but shot an impressive 49.1 percent on 28-of-57 shooting.
“This was the atmosphere and intensity I expected from (
As the final buzzer sounded with CU on top, the jubilant crowd shared their support for Barry and a team who they witnessed struggle through a rough Big 12 season only to send off their coach with a redeeming win at home.
“I think I will (always) remember that we won tonight,” Barry said. “I've had a hard time looking back at the tape this year, but I think I will go ahead and look at this one.”
The exciting game yielded to a 45-minute post game tribute to Barry, keeping the crowd entertained long after it was over so the fans could witness the coach put a closure on her 22 seasons as a collegiate women's basketball icon.
Barry won't go far, however, as she will join the university as assistant athletic director for student services.
“I'm really looking forward to another challenge,” Barry said. “I want to help this university and this basketball program in any way I can.”
Barry and the Buffs will continue their season at the Big 12 Tournament, which starts on March 8.
