Colorado Men's Basketball Team Prepares for 2025-26 Season Opener: Key Decisions and Roster Analysis
As the 2025-26 season opener approaches, Tad Boyle and the Colorado men's basketball team are facing crucial decisions. The team will kick off their 16th season under Boyle's leadership against Montana State at the CU Events Center. With an expanded roster of 14 scholarship players, Boyle will need to determine the key roles for the upcoming season.
While some players like Elijah Malone, Bangot Dak, Sebastian Rancik, and Felix Kossaras are expected to play significant roles, the team also has new additions like point guard Barrington Hargress and freshman Isaiah Johnson who are likely to contribute. With a mix of young wings and post players vying for playing time, Boyle emphasized the importance of honest conversations with the players to make informed decisions.
The team's depth includes seven freshmen, raising the possibility of redshirting at least one player. The frontcourt presents potential redshirt candidates like Tacko Ifaola and Leonardo Van Elswyk, as Boyle evaluates the best strategy for player development. The team's self-awareness and evaluations will play a crucial role in shaping the roster for the upcoming season.
In addition to the basketball decisions, scheduling adjustments have been made for the Buffs' games. The game against Eastern Washington on Nov. 8 will tip off at 2 p.m., following the early start of the football kickoff. The Big 12 also modified the start times and TV information for the games against Arizona State, providing fans with updated viewing options for these matchups.
The upcoming matchup against Montana State marks the ninth meeting between the two programs, with CU holding a 6-2 series lead. Notably, the Buffs previously faced the Bobcats in the 2021-22 season opener, securing a victory in overtime. The game featured standout performances from current assistant Evan Battey and several NBA players who were part of the Colorado team at that time.
In conclusion, as the Buffs gear up for the new season, Boyle and his staff face critical decisions in shaping the roster and preparing for competitive matchups. The team's depth and talent will be key factors in determining the optimal lineup for success on the court. Stay tuned for exciting basketball action as the Colorado men's team embarks on another season of collegiate competition.