UPDATE: The CSU Rams faced a heartbreaking defeat in an intense matchup against the Denver Pioneers, losing 83-81 on November 10, 2023, at Moby Arena. This loss marks the Rams’ first of the season, dropping their record to 4-1.
Despite a strong start, the Rams struggled with shooting, finishing the night with just 79.5% from the free-throw line and 44.4% from beyond the arc. The game came down to the wire, with CSU having a chance to clinch victory at the buzzer. However, a last-second three-pointer attempt by Josh Pascarelli missed its mark, sealing the Rams’ fate.
The excitement intensified in the second half when CSU trailed 41-33 and quickly rallied with a 12-2 run, tying the game at 45 with 15:36 remaining. As the teams exchanged leads, the Pioneers surged ahead with a 61-56 advantage, capitalizing on a scoring spree of six consecutive field goals.
With just 43 seconds left in the game, the Rams narrowed the gap to just one point at 80-79 thanks to a pair of clutch free throws from Carey Booth. However, a missed layup by Jevin Muniz after a critical block by Booth prevented CSU from taking the lead. The Pioneers maintained their edge, ultimately leading to a tense conclusion.
Kyle Jorgensen emerged as the standout performer for the Rams, scoring an impressive 29 points, marking his third career high in only five games this season. Booth contributed 18 points and five rebounds, while Brandon Rechsteiner added 11 points to the scoreboard.
The loss came as a shock after a promising start, where CSU initially led by as much as 19-11 in the first half. However, Denver regained control, closing the first half with a 41-33 lead after a buzzer-beater three-pointer from Carson Johnson.
Looking ahead, the Rams will need to regroup quickly as they prepare for their next challenge against Virginia Tech in the Battle 4 Atlantis on Wednesday, November 15, in Paradise Island, Bahamas. Fans are eager to see if CSU can bounce back and regain their winning momentum following this narrow defeat.
Stay tuned for updates as the Rams continue their season!
