I continue to be impressed with #TheRise. Through two weeks the Colorado football team looks good... honestly, legitimately good. They're making plays, executing, and getting the most out of every snap on both sides of the ball. Head Coach Mike MacIntyre, after the game Saturday, chalked this up to the players entering the season 'starving' for success. They certainly look it. It's to the point that I'm expecting a quality performance this week in Michigan, despite the fact that they were installed as 20-point underdogs to the #4 team in the country. Maybe the Buffs won't win, maybe they can't win, but I at least know they're going to show up. I believe: Colorado is going to head east, give it their best, and prove to the nation that CU belongs on the same field as one of the heavies in the sport. It's a confidence I haven't had in recent years, but have now. Damn, this kool-aid tastes good.
Go get 'em, Buffs. Shock the world!
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Today in the bag, I'm talking a first round TKO of the Idaho State Bengals, some big recruiting news from Tad Boyle's basketball kingdom, and a roundup of the week's action in Pac-12 football.
Click below for the bag...
Showing posts with label good news (off-court). Show all posts
Showing posts with label good news (off-court). Show all posts
Tuesday, September 13, 2016
Tuesday, July 5, 2016
Tuesday Grab Bag: Buffs fill out roster in style
Over the holiday weekend, Boulder was visited by an eclectic mix of aged hippies and hangers on... which didn't really differentiate it much from any other weekend, come to think of it. I kid, but the Grateful Dead, or what remains of the old school peace and love touring group, played two shows at Folsom; the first such musical performances at the stadium since 2001 (Dave Matthews Band). From all accounts, the concerts went off without a hitch, and, more importantly, there was little trouble in the City of Boulder pre- or post-shows. From my own experience, I found the attendees to be rather reserved and far from destructive on the larger neighborhood (I live four blocks from Folsom, and walked the creek path before each show).
Now, I don't give a shit about the Dead. Not my style of music, not my kind of crowd (outside of Bill Walton, who is, of course, always welcome at the Casa de Rumblin). But, this was an important moment for CU. The ability to hold concerts at other non-football events at Folsom is a nice revenue stream to the athletic department, and putting on these shows with the Dead and Company were the first steps towards tapping that stream since before the east-side suites went up. I don't believe for a second that CU made too much money this weekend, at least nothing that'll come close to erasing the remaining costs of the facility upgrades, but every dollar added, without too much impact on the community, is important, and nothing to sniff at.
Additionally, the last time Folsom hosted a concert, the football team went on to win a conference title, and drop the most satisfying scoreline in the history of the program. Maybe, in that vein, the return of some touring musical karma will help the 2016 Buffaloes end the painful bowl drought...
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Today in the Bag, I'm talking a huge pickup for Coach Boyle and the men's basketball team, tipoff in The Basketball Tournament, and a Euros update.
Click below for the bag...
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| Seemed like a pretty cool scene up on campus. From: @CUBuffsTurf |
Additionally, the last time Folsom hosted a concert, the football team went on to win a conference title, and drop the most satisfying scoreline in the history of the program. Maybe, in that vein, the return of some touring musical karma will help the 2016 Buffaloes end the painful bowl drought...
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Today in the Bag, I'm talking a huge pickup for Coach Boyle and the men's basketball team, tipoff in The Basketball Tournament, and a Euros update.
Click below for the bag...
Tuesday, June 28, 2016
Tuesday Grab Bag: The State of the CU Athletic Department
The news broke last night: the great Pat Summitt had passed. A titan of the college basketball world, Summitt owned the women's game for nearly four full decades, heading the Lady Vols of Tennessee through 8 national titles, 16 conference crowns, and well over 1,000 wins (at an 84% clip). Really, the only head coach who can hold a candle to her success is UCLA's John Wooden, but Summitt coached longer, endured against more persistent competition, and ultimately won more (though Wooden did leave a bunch of years on the table). In that vein, there is a very credible argument to be made that Summitt, not Wooden, is the sport's greatest coach. Oh, and did I mention that she graduated everyone and ran a clean program?
It's with all that in mind that the entire basketball world mourns the loss of a legend; RIP.
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Today in the bag, I'm talking the Rick George roundtable, some recruiting news that has BuffNation all abuzz, and soccer notes from both the Copa and the Euros.
Click below for the bag...
It's with all that in mind that the entire basketball world mourns the loss of a legend; RIP.
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Today in the bag, I'm talking the Rick George roundtable, some recruiting news that has BuffNation all abuzz, and soccer notes from both the Copa and the Euros.
Click below for the bag...
Tuesday, August 4, 2015
Tuesday Grab Bag: Embrace the Ascendancy
If you haven't noticed - and, damnit, you should've - there's a new voice behind the content at CUBuffs.com. Former Boulder Daily Camera scribe Neill Woelk is back in Boulder as the new contributing editor at the school's site, and everyone in this fanbase is better off for it. Not that the great B.G. Brooks, who retired this past year, wasn't getting the job done, mind you, just that Woelk's consistent, knowledgeable, incisive, and passionate voice had been sorely missed over the past five years.
Glad to have you back, Neill, and I look forward to all the great content you're about to put out!
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Today in the bag, I'm talking the start of Fall Camp, a wrap-up of Pac-12 media days, and close of The Basketball Tournament.
Click below for the bag...
Glad to have you back, Neill, and I look forward to all the great content you're about to put out!
--
Today in the bag, I'm talking the start of Fall Camp, a wrap-up of Pac-12 media days, and close of The Basketball Tournament.
Click below for the bag...
Thursday, October 10, 2013
UPDATED - Quick Post: Season Basketball Tickets Sold Out!
If you were still waffling on whether or not to pick up one of the few remaining season ticket packages for the 2013-14 men's basketball campaign, you've missed the boat as CU announced today that all season tickets have been SOLD OUT! What few single-seats remain are being sold through today's season ticket holder sale, tomorrow's Buff Club sale, and a registered fan sale on Monday. Beyond that, however, there isn't a seat to be had... a full month before opening night, no less. (Student tickets are still available... for now.)
The news today only continues the incredible string of ticket sales
figures that have accompanied three-straight years of unparalleled success
for Colorado Basketball. After averaging over 10,000 fans last season, the Buffs should be near the 11,064 seat capacity of the CEC every night this winter. CU basketball, once a laughing stock, is now the hottest ticket on the Front Range. Suck on that.
And to the 100s of KU fans, who, undoubtedly, helped Colorado reach this milestone by buying season ticket packages for the one game they care about, I say thank you. Your donations to the Buff Club are greatly appreciated. As for the rest of your blue and red cronies who won't be able to attend because CU is a basketball school now, I can only remind you that the game will be shown on ESPN2. I hope you have a comfortable couch.
ROLL. DAMN. TAD.
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| A packed CEC, now a familiar sight. From: the alumni association |
And to the 100s of KU fans, who, undoubtedly, helped Colorado reach this milestone by buying season ticket packages for the one game they care about, I say thank you. Your donations to the Buff Club are greatly appreciated. As for the rest of your blue and red cronies who won't be able to attend because CU is a basketball school now, I can only remind you that the game will be shown on ESPN2. I hope you have a comfortable couch.
ROLL. DAMN. TAD.
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
Quick Post: #CUGameday - College Gameday possibly coming to Boulder
Twitter lit up today with the news that College Gameday might be coming back to Boulder! No, silly, not for a football game, but for basketball.
On February 22nd, the Buffs play host to Arizona, in what many expect will be a game between the top two teams in the Pac-12. ESPN plans to chose between that titanic tilt and UCLA/Stanford for that weekend's traveling roadshow destination.
As long as CU holds up their end of the bargain, and play like the top-25 team they project to be this season, that choice will be a no-brainer for the big-whigs in Bristol. Not only will CU/UofA be a high-profile rivalry matchup from one of the country's premier leagues, but the C-Unit has quickly gained a reputation for being one of the most passionate student sections in America. Stanford simply doesn't measure up.
For the record, ESPN hasn't brought Gameday to Boulder since 1995, when they came to town twice for football (Texas A&M and Nebraska). They've never been here for basketball. It's time for that drought to end with a bang on 2/22/14!
On February 22nd, the Buffs play host to Arizona, in what many expect will be a game between the top two teams in the Pac-12. ESPN plans to chose between that titanic tilt and UCLA/Stanford for that weekend's traveling roadshow destination.
As long as CU holds up their end of the bargain, and play like the top-25 team they project to be this season, that choice will be a no-brainer for the big-whigs in Bristol. Not only will CU/UofA be a high-profile rivalry matchup from one of the country's premier leagues, but the C-Unit has quickly gained a reputation for being one of the most passionate student sections in America. Stanford simply doesn't measure up.
For the record, ESPN hasn't brought Gameday to Boulder since 1995, when they came to town twice for football (Texas A&M and Nebraska). They've never been here for basketball. It's time for that drought to end with a bang on 2/22/14!
Monday, July 8, 2013
Monday Grab Bag: ... still shaking off the post-4th hangover
Three weeks ago, I made a point of selecting the Colorado Rockies as a surrogate baseball team to follow while My White Sox surge towards true 'dumpster-fire' status. Of course, since that announcement, the Rox have gone 5-14, slipping below .500, and into third place. I offer a heartfelt apology to both the Colorado Rockies and their fanbase for bringing the stink of losing with me.
How about I make amends? I'll reverse course, become a temporary 'fan' of the Arizona Diamondbacks, and drag them, kicking and screaming, into the cellar. How does that sound?
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It's a Christmas Carol version of the bag, in which I talk Buffs past, present, and future.
Click below for the bag...
How about I make amends? I'll reverse course, become a temporary 'fan' of the Arizona Diamondbacks, and drag them, kicking and screaming, into the cellar. How does that sound?
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It's a Christmas Carol version of the bag, in which I talk Buffs past, present, and future.
Click below for the bag...
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Dom Collier is a Buff!
It may technically be the offseason, but Colorado Basketball continues to burn bright with news. Yesterday, the hype came from the recruiting trail, as reigning Colorado Gatorade Player of the Year and Mr Basketball Dominique Collier announced his commitment to play at Dear Old CU.
A 6-1 point guard out of Denver East, Collier is an expert ball handler, with the ability to both distribute and create his own shot. I saw him play late last year, and came away very impressed. Despite still recovering from a tweaked knee, Dom put up a sheet-filling 25/8/6/3/3, all while making his already talented teammates better. He struck me as 'good-as-advertised,' and a talent I desperately wanted to see in Black and Gold. With Spencer Dinwiddie probably leaving after 2013, Dom will be counted on to use that talent to step into primary ball-handling duties upon arrival.
This is a major recruiting coup, one that probably wouldn't have been possible a few years ago. It's not a case where Coach Boyle got in early on a recruit who eventually blossomed (like, say, Josh Scott). Collier has been on the national recruiting radar since even before his freshman year of high school, and Colorado had to box out big-name programs like Arizona, Gonzaga, and UCLA from day one. He's a unanimous four-star prospect, with Rivals positioning him as the #61 player of the 2014 recruiting class. If you can't tell, that's huge.
Building a program is an all-encompassing project, requiring success both on and off court. With recruiting victories like Collier, Boyle continues to make the statement that Colorado Basketball is prepared to stay at the top of the landscape. It's an impact commitment, and the 8th top-150 star for the coaching staff over three and a half recruiting cycles at the helm. A new world, indeed.
There's still more than six months to go before the early signing period starts, so maybe Dom can turn the tables, and help with some recruiting of his own. The Buffs have upwards of two additional scholarships to offer for the 2014 class, and could use a shooter and a big. Players like SG Dorian Pickens, SF Zylan Cheatham, and PF Andre Adams are still on the board, and have been getting plenty of attention from the CU coaching staff. Super-phenom Josh Perkins may still technically be a possibility, but that prospect looks exceedingly dim with yesterday's announcement from Collier (read: not going to happen).
Regardless, I'm pumped that Collier, a prospect I've been following for years, chose to be a Buff. Congrats to Dom, and congrats to Coach Boyle and staff!
A 6-1 point guard out of Denver East, Collier is an expert ball handler, with the ability to both distribute and create his own shot. I saw him play late last year, and came away very impressed. Despite still recovering from a tweaked knee, Dom put up a sheet-filling 25/8/6/3/3, all while making his already talented teammates better. He struck me as 'good-as-advertised,' and a talent I desperately wanted to see in Black and Gold. With Spencer Dinwiddie probably leaving after 2013, Dom will be counted on to use that talent to step into primary ball-handling duties upon arrival.
This is a major recruiting coup, one that probably wouldn't have been possible a few years ago. It's not a case where Coach Boyle got in early on a recruit who eventually blossomed (like, say, Josh Scott). Collier has been on the national recruiting radar since even before his freshman year of high school, and Colorado had to box out big-name programs like Arizona, Gonzaga, and UCLA from day one. He's a unanimous four-star prospect, with Rivals positioning him as the #61 player of the 2014 recruiting class. If you can't tell, that's huge.
Building a program is an all-encompassing project, requiring success both on and off court. With recruiting victories like Collier, Boyle continues to make the statement that Colorado Basketball is prepared to stay at the top of the landscape. It's an impact commitment, and the 8th top-150 star for the coaching staff over three and a half recruiting cycles at the helm. A new world, indeed.
There's still more than six months to go before the early signing period starts, so maybe Dom can turn the tables, and help with some recruiting of his own. The Buffs have upwards of two additional scholarships to offer for the 2014 class, and could use a shooter and a big. Players like SG Dorian Pickens, SF Zylan Cheatham, and PF Andre Adams are still on the board, and have been getting plenty of attention from the CU coaching staff. Super-phenom Josh Perkins may still technically be a possibility, but that prospect looks exceedingly dim with yesterday's announcement from Collier (read: not going to happen).
Regardless, I'm pumped that Collier, a prospect I've been following for years, chose to be a Buff. Congrats to Dom, and congrats to Coach Boyle and staff!
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Quick Post: Coach Mac to be enshrined in Hall of Fame
Long overdue, legendary CU football Coach Bill McCartney has been selected as part of the 2013 College Football Hall of Fame class.
Known nationally for bringing Colorado Football to the forefront of the sport in the late 80s and early 90s, Coach McCartney spent 13 years turning what was a flailing program into a national power. More than just the 1990 national championship, Coach Mac is responsible for the modern definition of football on the Front Range.
As CU SID David Plati points out, McCartney never shied away from the
competition, and succeeded against the best the nation had to offer.
His example, both on and off the field, casts a long shadow, with an influence that still impacts the program to this day. No matter what you think of his belief structure, or his more recent escapades with the program, Coach Mac is an essential part of the Colorado story, and a man deserving of recognition.
McCartney becomes the 7th Buff enshrined, and the third in the last four years (Alfred Williams and John Wooten).
Congratulations to the original Coach Mac!
Known nationally for bringing Colorado Football to the forefront of the sport in the late 80s and early 90s, Coach McCartney spent 13 years turning what was a flailing program into a national power. More than just the 1990 national championship, Coach Mac is responsible for the modern definition of football on the Front Range.
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| Coach Mac celebrating the 20th anniversary of the 1990 title. From: CUBuffs.com |
Mac: 93-55-5 at CU, 84 of those wins against "BCS" schools; five of the other nine against rival CSU; win total not padded with pansies.
— David Plati (@davidplati) May 7, 2013
His example, both on and off the field, casts a long shadow, with an influence that still impacts the program to this day. No matter what you think of his belief structure, or his more recent escapades with the program, Coach Mac is an essential part of the Colorado story, and a man deserving of recognition.
McCartney becomes the 7th Buff enshrined, and the third in the last four years (Alfred Williams and John Wooten).
Congratulations to the original Coach Mac!
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Quick Post: Academic Honors
A hearty congratulations to both Sabatino Chen and Shane Harris-Tunks for earning spots on the Pac-12 All-Academic teams. Sabatino received his second-consecutive first team honor by posting a 3.51 GPA in mathematics, while Shane grabbed second team honors with his 3.39 GPA in advertising.
The accolades afforded the pair of graduating seniors underscore the success Coach Boyle's teams have enjoyed in the classroom. Over his tenure, Boyle has graduated all 12 of his seniors and eligible juniors, and has produced two perfect 1,000 point APR scores, with this current year still to be evaluated. For a program once toeing APR disaster, it's been an incredible turnaround, especially considering that it has occurred during an upswing in on-court performance.
Only CU, Stanford (six selections), Arizona State (one), and Utah (one) saw a player selected for either the first or second teams this year. Way to be Stanford, Stanford.
Not to be outdone, the women's team also saw a pair of their members honored for their classroom exploits. Sophomore Lexy Kresl was placed on the second team for her 3.52 GPA in integrative physiology, while junior Rachel Hargis received an honorable mention for her 3.06 GPA in psychology.
Congratulations to all!
The accolades afforded the pair of graduating seniors underscore the success Coach Boyle's teams have enjoyed in the classroom. Over his tenure, Boyle has graduated all 12 of his seniors and eligible juniors, and has produced two perfect 1,000 point APR scores, with this current year still to be evaluated. For a program once toeing APR disaster, it's been an incredible turnaround, especially considering that it has occurred during an upswing in on-court performance.
Only CU, Stanford (six selections), Arizona State (one), and Utah (one) saw a player selected for either the first or second teams this year. Way to be Stanford, Stanford.
Not to be outdone, the women's team also saw a pair of their members honored for their classroom exploits. Sophomore Lexy Kresl was placed on the second team for her 3.52 GPA in integrative physiology, while junior Rachel Hargis received an honorable mention for her 3.06 GPA in psychology.
Congratulations to all!
Monday, November 19, 2012
Quick Post: Confirming what we already knew
Numerous outlets, from CBS to the AP, are letting the world know that the Buffs are one of the 25 best teams in the land. It's the first time since 2006 that the team has been ranked in any poll, and the earliest in-season ranking since 1970.
I appreciate their honesty, but I already knew this. Watching the team in Charleston made that point self-evident.
It's just a shame that the coaches can't be as open and honest about the Buffs continued success, as they left the Buffs off the board at #27. Who exactly are the coaches voting in these rankings, anyway? Hrmmm... well, there's Jim Boeheim, Steve Fisher, Shaka Smart, Tommy Amaker, Randy Bennett, and... WAIT A SECOND! SCOTT DREW HAS A VOTE ON THIS! That cheating Baylor bastard! He probably saw the writing on the wall, with the Buffs being ranked higher than his Bears in most places, and left the Buffs off on purpose. DAMN HIM!
Regardless, I guess the team will just have to keep throwing down 'W's' before Drew and his fellow coaches eventually come around to reality.
THEY WILL RECOGNIZE!
I appreciate their honesty, but I already knew this. Watching the team in Charleston made that point self-evident.
It's just a shame that the coaches can't be as open and honest about the Buffs continued success, as they left the Buffs off the board at #27. Who exactly are the coaches voting in these rankings, anyway? Hrmmm... well, there's Jim Boeheim, Steve Fisher, Shaka Smart, Tommy Amaker, Randy Bennett, and... WAIT A SECOND! SCOTT DREW HAS A VOTE ON THIS! That cheating Baylor bastard! He probably saw the writing on the wall, with the Buffs being ranked higher than his Bears in most places, and left the Buffs off on purpose. DAMN HIM!
Regardless, I guess the team will just have to keep throwing down 'W's' before Drew and his fellow coaches eventually come around to reality.
THEY WILL RECOGNIZE!
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Basketball's signing day
Today is the first day of the fall signing period for basketball and other winter sports. After going 3-for-3 with visits in September, Coach Boyle spent the day putting the finishing touches on his 3rd consecutive solid recruiting class. Comprised of three 'tweener athletes who can play multiple
positions, this class is prototypical Coach Boyle: long, lean, and athletic players who are far from one-dimensional. All three committed after visiting during early-season football
weekends; in future years, we may look back on this trio as one of the few
positives to emerge from the 2012 football campaign.
With a trio of forwards forming the backbone of the 2012 class, 2013 has been built mostly on the perimeter. It's not going to make the national waves that last season's vaunted class did, but it's still a haul to be proud of, and one that should continue the process of building this program into a consistent winner.
There were some blue-chip misses out on the recruiting trail - especially Jabari Bird, who chose Cal over the Buffs, among others - but I'm satisfied with the group Coach Boyle has put together. Unlike last season, where Eli Stalzer became a surprise spring signing, the program is completely out of scholarships - in fact, CU oversigned by two, relying on post-season defections to create open spots - so this coaching staff can now devote all of it's recruiting attention to 2014.
Below is a quick break-down of the class, and how I see them contributing in the future.
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Jaron Hopkins - SG - 6'5", 190, Mesa, AZ
-Rivals
-ESPN
-AllBuffs
Jaron is the big name of the class; CU had to out-pursue many Pac-12 rivals to get him. The #1 recruit from the state of Arizona, he's been consistently ranked in the top-150 players nationally, and is seen by most as a 4-star level prospect. Listed as a SG, he's versatile enough to play anywhere from 1-through-3. He's got an explosive first-step, and projects to be a monster in transition. He'll have to work on shooting consistency, especially at the free throw line, and he has a noted tendency to over-dribble, but he's an exciting athletic talent who could see good minutes his freshman year.
Tre'Shaun Fletcher (nee Lexing) - SF - 6'5", 195, Tacoma, WA
-Rivals
-ESPN
-AllBuffs
The lone signing day surprise wasn't the commit status of a recruit, but rather a name change. Back in September, recruiting junkies rejoiced over a commitment from Tre'Shaun Lexing. A few days ago, however, word came down that he is now a Fletcher. Fair enough.
The word almost everyone uses when describing Tre'Shaun is "upside." Luckily, the current state of the roster should allow the southpaw to mature a bit before he's relied upon. Strong in transition, most note that he is a good passer who does a great job distributing when his options are cut short. His jump-shot can get away from him, but it is improving.
Dustin Thomas - PF - 6'8", 210, Texarkana, TX
-Rivals
-ESPN
-AllBuffs
Potentially the most intriguing member of the 2013 class, Dustin comes to CU as a sleeper power forward prospect from Texas (so much of a sleeper, in fact, that I can't find any online video packages). The part of his game that grabs the most attention is his outside shot, as he hit 48% from three as a junior, but he can also rebound, grabbing 14 per game in his high school league. His stock rose sharply over the summer, and CU had to beat out old Big XII rivals Oklahoma and K-State for his services. Being from Texas and playing as a rangy "4," comparisons will quickly be made to Andre Roberson, but that's probably unfair. Still, BuffNation has gotten used to what a high-motor power forward from the Lone Star State can bring to the table.
--
Congrats to all three, and welcome to BuffNation!
With a trio of forwards forming the backbone of the 2012 class, 2013 has been built mostly on the perimeter. It's not going to make the national waves that last season's vaunted class did, but it's still a haul to be proud of, and one that should continue the process of building this program into a consistent winner.
There were some blue-chip misses out on the recruiting trail - especially Jabari Bird, who chose Cal over the Buffs, among others - but I'm satisfied with the group Coach Boyle has put together. Unlike last season, where Eli Stalzer became a surprise spring signing, the program is completely out of scholarships - in fact, CU oversigned by two, relying on post-season defections to create open spots - so this coaching staff can now devote all of it's recruiting attention to 2014.
Below is a quick break-down of the class, and how I see them contributing in the future.
--
Jaron Hopkins - SG - 6'5", 190, Mesa, AZ
-ESPN
-AllBuffs
Jaron is the big name of the class; CU had to out-pursue many Pac-12 rivals to get him. The #1 recruit from the state of Arizona, he's been consistently ranked in the top-150 players nationally, and is seen by most as a 4-star level prospect. Listed as a SG, he's versatile enough to play anywhere from 1-through-3. He's got an explosive first-step, and projects to be a monster in transition. He'll have to work on shooting consistency, especially at the free throw line, and he has a noted tendency to over-dribble, but he's an exciting athletic talent who could see good minutes his freshman year.
Tre'Shaun Fletcher (nee Lexing) - SF - 6'5", 195, Tacoma, WA
-ESPN
-AllBuffs
The lone signing day surprise wasn't the commit status of a recruit, but rather a name change. Back in September, recruiting junkies rejoiced over a commitment from Tre'Shaun Lexing. A few days ago, however, word came down that he is now a Fletcher. Fair enough.
The word almost everyone uses when describing Tre'Shaun is "upside." Luckily, the current state of the roster should allow the southpaw to mature a bit before he's relied upon. Strong in transition, most note that he is a good passer who does a great job distributing when his options are cut short. His jump-shot can get away from him, but it is improving.
Dustin Thomas - PF - 6'8", 210, Texarkana, TX
-ESPN
-AllBuffs
Potentially the most intriguing member of the 2013 class, Dustin comes to CU as a sleeper power forward prospect from Texas (so much of a sleeper, in fact, that I can't find any online video packages). The part of his game that grabs the most attention is his outside shot, as he hit 48% from three as a junior, but he can also rebound, grabbing 14 per game in his high school league. His stock rose sharply over the summer, and CU had to beat out old Big XII rivals Oklahoma and K-State for his services. Being from Texas and playing as a rangy "4," comparisons will quickly be made to Andre Roberson, but that's probably unfair. Still, BuffNation has gotten used to what a high-motor power forward from the Lone Star State can bring to the table.
--
Congrats to all three, and welcome to BuffNation!
Friday, May 25, 2012
Quick Post: The Jayhawks have fallen into our trap
My evil plan has come to fruition. Kansas is coming back to the CEC.
The Jayhawks, comforted by years of hoops dominance, have not seen the danger in signing up to play the poor old Buffaloes again. Oh sure, if the series starts in Lawrence this year, CU may get throttled, youth and inexperience possibly keeping the game from being competitive. But that first return leg... *evil grin, maniacal laugh* Lawrence seems to have missed the memo: shit's changed around here.
I had been doing mental gymnastics, trying to envision a scenario where we could trick KU in to coming back up to 5,385 feet of Rocky Mountain High Altitude. Turns out, they'll stroll in willingly.
If KU is expecting 6,000 open seats eagerly waiting the return of their fans, they will be left wanting. That crowd will be Black and Gold, mark my words. Those Jayhawks will be marching into a frothing CEC, with the long-suffering Buff fanbase out for blood and revenge. BLOOD AND REVENGE!
This is a perfect situation for CU. We get the lone Big 8 hoops rival we should care about back on the schedule, and an immediate RPI boost (we care about such things now). From the KU perspective, they get a series that placates the western portion of their fanbase, and a game against a conference champion.
They'll also get a big fat road loss hung on their head in two years.
The Jayhawks, comforted by years of hoops dominance, have not seen the danger in signing up to play the poor old Buffaloes again. Oh sure, if the series starts in Lawrence this year, CU may get throttled, youth and inexperience possibly keeping the game from being competitive. But that first return leg... *evil grin, maniacal laugh* Lawrence seems to have missed the memo: shit's changed around here.
I had been doing mental gymnastics, trying to envision a scenario where we could trick KU in to coming back up to 5,385 feet of Rocky Mountain High Altitude. Turns out, they'll stroll in willingly.
If KU is expecting 6,000 open seats eagerly waiting the return of their fans, they will be left wanting. That crowd will be Black and Gold, mark my words. Those Jayhawks will be marching into a frothing CEC, with the long-suffering Buff fanbase out for blood and revenge. BLOOD AND REVENGE!
This is a perfect situation for CU. We get the lone Big 8 hoops rival we should care about back on the schedule, and an immediate RPI boost (we care about such things now). From the KU perspective, they get a series that placates the western portion of their fanbase, and a game against a conference champion.
They'll also get a big fat road loss hung on their head in two years.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
(UPDATED) Quick-Post: Mike Bohn's media roundtable
BREAKING NEWS ALERT!!!!!
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| You keep ringing that bell, Texas Tech dude, and let the whole world know that there's breaking CU news. |
Mike Bohn gathered up the CU media at Blake Street Tavern this afternoon to direct download teh awesome about the future of the athletic department. Throughout the media roundtable he hit upon juicy topics like: the eagerly anticipated Folsom expansion, other facility upgrades, further sport expansion, and future travel plans for the C-Unit.
Since I was not invited (with good reason... too much drool), allow me to link to the pertinent tweets from the assembled media horde. (Big shout-out to BuffStampede.com's Sean Niehoff, who was the most effusive with his tweeting this afternoon. BuffScoop.com's Will Whelan also deserves direct mention.)
Folsom Expansion: First and foremost, Folsom will be seeing a "transformational" facilities upgrade in the near future. Rumors and speculation surrounding possible Folsom upgrades had been rampant since photos of an expanded Folsom model leaked on National Signing Day. Furthered by the fact that big-time CU athletics booster George Solich was soon to come into a few extra billion in cash, many in Buff Nation believed related upgrade announcements were just over the horizon. It seems that we'll only have to wait until September to see these dreams become a reality.
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| Boom. |
(UPDATE) In the follow-up BDC article, Bohn is quoted as saying, “It's not a dream, it's not a vision, it's a project we're working hard on. It's our No. 1 priority.” Further clarification on the facility: "[...] the project will include a permanent indoor practice facility that would be used primarily by the football team, but would also benefit many of the other 16 athletics programs in the department."
Further facility upgrades: The sorely needed video board upgrades will be installed after the Bolder Boulder. Additional major facility upgrades could include the CEC, where expansion of team specific facilities are being eyed. This, along with the addition of a basketball specific strength and conditioning coach, proves we're serious about maintaining the gains made in hoops. Finally, the practice bubble will be getting some new turf put in around July.
Sport expansion redux: Let me tell you, this will never go away. Sooner or later, the athletic department is either going to cave, or throw a fit. *cough*I-want-a-baseball-team*cough* For his part, Bohn hoped to assuage the conversation by hinting that it's off the table without further donations.
So you're saying there's a chance... Not for nothing, but PowerBall is up above $100 million this week; should I win that, we'll have a baseball program by Sunday morning.
The C-Unit will be let loose on the Strip: The final piece of awesome is the announcement that the C-Unit study abroad series, which featured stops in Los Angeles and Albuquerque last month, will continue in 2012-13. That means the University will be sending kids on a trip to Vegas!
Now before the Helen Lovejoy's of the world start screaming about the children, I imagine the trip will be as heavily structured as this past year's were, and that the students won't be allowed anywhere near a gambling floor. Still, the prospect of an all expenses paid trip to the City of Sin should have plenty of students showing up for every game this year.
Go Buffs!
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Quick Post: On CU's new reputation
I don't know if you noticed, but we're suddenly a school that travels well. At least that's the message that's been floating across the country over the past two weeks.
It all culminated in Albuquerque, where enthusiasm surrounding the hoops program's first conference title in over 40 years combined with a short trip down I-25 to fill the Pit with Black & Gold. That formula almost helped propel the Buffs into the Sweet Sixteen.
The presence in New Mexico only followed on the heels of the heart of the C-Unit being shipped out to LA, where they were seemingly the only group at the Staples Center interested in making noise.
As a result, TruTV/TNT constantly showed the C-Unit celebrating, announcers in both LA and ABQ couldn't help but mention it, and bloggers and journalists from across the sporting world commented on it. The University of Colorado was suddenly a traveling force to be reckoned with.
Hell, even the band was getting massive props:
These two weeks aren't isolated incidents, either. Increased student enthusiasm and participation helped slide the C-Unit into the final eight of the Naismith Student Section of the Year Award. Additionally, with the move to the Pac-12, overall road attendance is on the rise, and solid Buff contingents were at every West Coast road venue for both football and mens basketball.
Never in my decade on the Front Range have I seen anything close to this from Buff Nation. Typically in the past, at basketball tournaments and road football games, the only Buff presence would be the band and the team's family. At the Big XII championship game in 2005, for example, only a handful dressed in Black & Gold bore witness to 70-3 (probably a good thing).
Based on my experiences, I just assumed that the fan base, though large and passionate at home, just wasn't a traveling bunch. I guess I was wrong. There just needed to be a spark of interest combined with feasible travel distances.
It all culminated in Albuquerque, where enthusiasm surrounding the hoops program's first conference title in over 40 years combined with a short trip down I-25 to fill the Pit with Black & Gold. That formula almost helped propel the Buffs into the Sweet Sixteen.
The presence in New Mexico only followed on the heels of the heart of the C-Unit being shipped out to LA, where they were seemingly the only group at the Staples Center interested in making noise.
As a result, TruTV/TNT constantly showed the C-Unit celebrating, announcers in both LA and ABQ couldn't help but mention it, and bloggers and journalists from across the sporting world commented on it. The University of Colorado was suddenly a traveling force to be reckoned with.
Hell, even the band was getting massive props:
These two weeks aren't isolated incidents, either. Increased student enthusiasm and participation helped slide the C-Unit into the final eight of the Naismith Student Section of the Year Award. Additionally, with the move to the Pac-12, overall road attendance is on the rise, and solid Buff contingents were at every West Coast road venue for both football and mens basketball.
Never in my decade on the Front Range have I seen anything close to this from Buff Nation. Typically in the past, at basketball tournaments and road football games, the only Buff presence would be the band and the team's family. At the Big XII championship game in 2005, for example, only a handful dressed in Black & Gold bore witness to 70-3 (probably a good thing).
Based on my experiences, I just assumed that the fan base, though large and passionate at home, just wasn't a traveling bunch. I guess I was wrong. There just needed to be a spark of interest combined with feasible travel distances.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Quick Post: The C-Unit makes the Elite 8
Somehow, someway, the C-Unit has made their way to the Elite 8 of the Naismith Student Section of the Year Award.
Based on a surge of fan voting, the C-Unit, who can reach numbers approaching 3,000 on game days, has navigated through the beauty pageant portion of the competition. Now the group, along with their seven fellow finalists, go in front of the Naismith Board of Selectors to determine the eventual winner and the recipient of the $5,000 grand prize.
With national recognition like this, it's no wonder that the Athletic Department is packing 50 of the kids along for the trip to the conference tournament.
It's heady days for the group. I remember when, not so long ago, it was a crew of six-ish freshmen standing off to the side of the rest of the student body. Not only did it quickly take over as the face of the student section in the CEC, but it also helped to inflate numbers and participation overall. Now the stadium is treated to a full spectacle of student participation:
Of course, I would strongly argue that, with the recent string of failures in Folsom, a large portion of the students are grasping at anything worth getting excited over. However, that doesn't diminish the fact that they have shown up this season, ready and willing to support the team with a ferocity usually reserved for traditional powerhouses in the ACC and the Big 10.
The story isn't where they've come from, it's what they're doing now. The CEC is one of the best hoop environments in the west because they're kicking so much ass.
Keep up the good work, C-Unit; we're going to need you next year. You're doing your university and the hoops program proud!
Based on a surge of fan voting, the C-Unit, who can reach numbers approaching 3,000 on game days, has navigated through the beauty pageant portion of the competition. Now the group, along with their seven fellow finalists, go in front of the Naismith Board of Selectors to determine the eventual winner and the recipient of the $5,000 grand prize.
With national recognition like this, it's no wonder that the Athletic Department is packing 50 of the kids along for the trip to the conference tournament.
It's heady days for the group. I remember when, not so long ago, it was a crew of six-ish freshmen standing off to the side of the rest of the student body. Not only did it quickly take over as the face of the student section in the CEC, but it also helped to inflate numbers and participation overall. Now the stadium is treated to a full spectacle of student participation:
Of course, I would strongly argue that, with the recent string of failures in Folsom, a large portion of the students are grasping at anything worth getting excited over. However, that doesn't diminish the fact that they have shown up this season, ready and willing to support the team with a ferocity usually reserved for traditional powerhouses in the ACC and the Big 10.
The story isn't where they've come from, it's what they're doing now. The CEC is one of the best hoop environments in the west because they're kicking so much ass.
Keep up the good work, C-Unit; we're going to need you next year. You're doing your university and the hoops program proud!
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Tuesday Grab Bag: Presidents' Day Edition
I spent Presidents' Day weekend up at Steamboat, enjoying a brief respite from the work and worries of the Front Range. You wouldn't have found me up on the slopes, however. I flat refuse to ski, as I find the sport akin to a masochistic death wish. Why anyone would want to hurtle themselves down a perfectly good mountain is lost on me. No, I spent my time in the hot tub, walking around town, and watching the Buffs struggle against Utah.
That mini-cation in the rear-view, it's time to focus on the stretch run. Today in the bag, I'll be wrapping the win over Utah, searching for Carlon Brown, and talking about the recently uncovered CU fanbase.
Click below for the bag...
That mini-cation in the rear-view, it's time to focus on the stretch run. Today in the bag, I'll be wrapping the win over Utah, searching for Carlon Brown, and talking about the recently uncovered CU fanbase.
Click below for the bag...
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Quick Post: New Practice Facility and Folsom Expansion
BREAKING NEWS ALERT!!!
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| You keep ringing that bell, Texas Tech dude, and let the whole world know that there's breaking CU news. |
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| From: @David_LaRose |
That is, probably, the 3-D rendering of the rumored, super-secret practice facility and Folsom Field expansion. Additionally, if you're really eagle-eyed, you may notice that the North-East side appears to have been expanded. If these upgrades are close to reality, they'd combine with the previously announced upgrades to the video boards to make Folsom Field, and the football program in general, as modern as can be expected.
While no one has trapped Bohn in a corner yet to ask him about the model, it's at least worth drooling over.
While CSU was out running their mouths about a 100,000-seat, on campus stadium experience (coming to a fantasy Ft. Collins near you), Mike Bohn was working behind the scenes to make real developments happen. Gotta love that Pac-12 monopoly money.
Go Buffs!
UPDATED: Quick Post: Non-Signing Day News
BREAKING NEWS ALERT!!!
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| You keep ringing that bell, Texas Tech dude, and let the whole world know that there's breaking CU news. |
The biggest news, at least in my view, is that Coach Tad Boyle is apparently about to receive a richly deserved contract extension. As reported by the BDC's Kyle Ringo, details are still to come.
One of the best up-and-coming coaches in the West, Coach Boyle has proven capable of injecting excitement and success into the CU mens basketball program that has traditionally exhibited neither. It's vital that his services be locked up for the foreseeable future, and poaching outside programs be kept at bay. I hope that extension comes with some extra cash, 'cause the guy deserves it - he made CU basketball relevant.
(UPDATE) Coach Boyle's extension is proposed through 2016, with a 3% salary bump. Only 3% is bullshit, DiStefano recently got 7% for no reason.
Whatever Coach Boyle wants to be paid is fine by me.
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| Pay that man his money... |
Also reported by Ringo, CU is going ahead with plans to start-up a womens lacrosse program. It was the logical choice, and the sport most agreed would be the first one to start once the Pac-12 monopoly money started rolling in. Since the 80s, the Buffs have dome more program hemorrhaging than program creation, so it's good to see any new sport added to our offerings.
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| Picture of the Pac-12 cash-money vault. |
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Buffs and Book-larnin': Football and Basketball out of the APR hole
Exciting news in the realm of academic progress! Both the football and mens basketball teams are out of the APR hole! It's been a long road back for both programs, but they've managed to escape the academic hounds, and will get to keep all of their scholarships for the coming year. Not entirely unexpected (in fact it was pretty much expected for football), but still very welcome.
APR, or Academic Progress Report, is based on a 4 year period of academic achievement, and takes into account such things as GPA, graduation rates, and the eligibility of players that leave the program.
The juicy bits:
- Football finally cracked the 925 mark after having inched towards it over the past few years. Last year the program had been slapped with a 5 scholarship reduction (worked into the '08 recruiting class through some planning by the Hawkins staff). This year's score of 958 (out of 1000) put the program over the top, and it's a relief going into a big recruiting year not to have to lose another batch of much needed scholarships.
- The biggest news comes from basketball, where the program scored a perfect 1000 for '09-'10. I knew Coach Bz had been cracking down on academics, but damn! In the 7 years of the APR program, the mens basketball team had never gotten a 1000 (in fact, I can't remember it being anywhere close). The overall score jumped to 926, barely escaping the 925 penalty line, which means no more scholarship reductions. Hell, the team GPA is even damn close to 2.8. Good work guys!
- The other 14 programs continue to operate in good standing, and womens tennis and mens golf posted perfect 4-year APR rates.
Good news all around. Way to hit the books, Buffaloes!
APR, or Academic Progress Report, is based on a 4 year period of academic achievement, and takes into account such things as GPA, graduation rates, and the eligibility of players that leave the program.
The juicy bits:
- Football finally cracked the 925 mark after having inched towards it over the past few years. Last year the program had been slapped with a 5 scholarship reduction (worked into the '08 recruiting class through some planning by the Hawkins staff). This year's score of 958 (out of 1000) put the program over the top, and it's a relief going into a big recruiting year not to have to lose another batch of much needed scholarships.
- The biggest news comes from basketball, where the program scored a perfect 1000 for '09-'10. I knew Coach Bz had been cracking down on academics, but damn! In the 7 years of the APR program, the mens basketball team had never gotten a 1000 (in fact, I can't remember it being anywhere close). The overall score jumped to 926, barely escaping the 925 penalty line, which means no more scholarship reductions. Hell, the team GPA is even damn close to 2.8. Good work guys!
- The other 14 programs continue to operate in good standing, and womens tennis and mens golf posted perfect 4-year APR rates.
Good news all around. Way to hit the books, Buffaloes!
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