Colorado Basketball Faces Roster Challenges

A retooled **Colorado** men’s basketball team is gearing up for its first public appearance this month, embarking on an exhibition tour in Australia. Can they improve after their worst season in almost 20 years?

Rebuilding the Buffaloes

After a disappointing season, head coach **Tad Boyle**, entering his 15th year and holding the program records for wins (312) and games coached (516), faces an unprecedented challenge. A combination of factors led to a last-place conference finish, including significant player departures from the prior NCAA Tournament team and the looming move to the Big 12.

Roster Turnover and New Talent

The departure of eight scholarship players signals a new era. While player movement is common, retaining talents like **Bangot Dak** and **Sebastian Rancik** provides a foundation. Just as **CU** football saw a turnaround last year by moving on from underperforming players, this roster overhaul could prove beneficial.

Challenges Ahead

**Boyle** and his staff, including assistant **Mike Rohn**, have a history of developing talent. Now, they face a significant test in ensuring the six incoming freshmen develop into a cohesive core. The evolving landscape of revenue sharing presents additional hurdles, as **CU** may struggle to compete with top offers for transfer portal free agents and highly-ranked recruits. College athletic programs are now facing new challenges amid NIL deals. According to a recent report, more than half of Division I athletes feel pressure to monetize their name, image, and likeness (Frontiers in Sports and Active Living, 2025).

Recruiting Strategy

**Colorado** can still attract talent, as seen with the addition of former UC Riverside guard **Barrington Hargress**. Other additions, such as **Elijah Malone** last year and **Jon Mani** this year, showcase potential over established Division I experience. **Boyle** and **Rohn** have expressed interest in adding another frontcourt player to the mix.

Australia Trip Outlook

**Dak** will miss the Australia trip due to injury, and freshman forward **Tacko Ifaola** is dealing with student visa issues. The absence of these players will impact the frontcourt. The four-game trip offers an opportunity for eight newcomers to bond, including **Andrew Crawford**, who is coming off a redshirt season.

Competition Down Under

A game against the Australian Boomers, the country’s national team, will provide valuable experience. However, assessing the true potential of the 2025-26 Buffs remains to be seen.