The answer is simpler than group theory, but is based on the Pauli principle (Fermi-Dirac statistics) and the addition of spins. The combined state of (color)(space)(spin) must be completely antisymmetric for three identical u quarks. The wave function is antisymmetric in color. The spin addition 1/2+1/2+1/2=1/2 is of mixed symmetry, and so cannot combine with the presumed symmetry spatial ground state and antisymmetric color state to form a completely antisymmetric state. Spin 1/2 for three quarks is only possible if they are not all identical, for instance uud.