TUCSON, Ariz. — Despite a spirited third-quarter surge and career-high 25 points from Noelani Cornfield, Arizona couldn't hold off Colorado down the stretch in a 78-70 loss Tuesday night at McKale Center.

The Wildcats (11-15, 2-13 Big 12) battled through 12 lead changes and six ties, briefly taking a fourth-quarter lead before Colorado's efficiency in the paint and on the glass proved decisive. The Buffaloes (19-8, 10-5) outscored Arizona 22-13 in the final period.

Arizona was paced by Cornfield, who scored 25 points on 9-of-18 shooting while adding eight assists and six steals in an all-around performance. Sumayah Sugapong chipped in 14 points, knocking down four 3-pointers, and Molly Ladwig added nine points. The Wildcats' bench contributed 29 points, helping Arizona stay within reach throughout.

After trailing 36-35 at halftime, Arizona opened the third quarter with renewed energy. The Wildcats shot 50% in the period and used active hands on defense to generate transition opportunities, building a seven-point lead midway through the fourth quarter - their largest of the night.

The turning point came late in the fourth when Colorado strung together a 7-0 run to erase Arizona's final lead. The Wildcats struggled to convert down the stretch, shooting just 5 of 10 in the final quarter while Colorado capitalized inside and converted 4 of 4 free throws in the closing minutes.

Arizona forced 17 turnovers and turned them into 31 points, while also holding a 20-6 edge in fast-break scoring.

Arizona returns to action on Saturday, February 21st, against Baylor in Waco, Tx, at 6 p.m. MST. This game will be streamed live on ESPN+ ($).