Before this year, Colorado men’s basketball had never won 25 games in a season. Now the Buff’s record is 26 wins after head coach Tad Boyle led KJ Simpson, Tristan da Silva, and Eddie Lampkin Jr. to a historic season, but the run came to an end in the Round of 32.
Colorado got win No. 26 in the first round of the NCAA Tournament with a heroic last-second shot from Simpson. In the Round of 32, the junior guard stayed hot with 32 points, seven assists, and five rebounds, but it came in an 81-77 loss to Marquette. Still, Colorado fans celebrated Simpson and the team’s historic season, and that includes the team’s head coach.
Tad Boyle: "I wouldn't trade KJ Simpson for any point guard in America ... I told him after the game I'd go to war with him every day of the week and twice on Sundays."
— Chase Howell (@chasehowell__) March 24, 2024
Most CU fans are desperate for KJ Simpson to stay and for Boyle to keep the core together in Boulder for next season. However, Simpson, da Silva, and freshman Cody Williams could all be heading to the NBA.
One more year!🥺🤞🏻
— Griffin Conant (@griffin_conant4) March 24, 2024
Three potential NBA draft picks would be a great sign for the health of the program but would hurt the team next season.
Shout out to Colorado for a hell of a season. Tristan Da Silva and KJ Simpson look like first round picks to me.
— The Cooler (@The__Cooler) March 24, 2024
Cody Williams looks like a Top 15 pick.
However, most fans aren’t getting ahead of themselves. This was the best team the Buffs have had in a long time, and while the run ended before getting the Sweet 16, two NCAA Tournament wins are still remarkable. Fans won’t forget them.
Heartbreaking loss, but can’t be anything but proud of my Buffs. Such a fun tourny run! Love this team. 🦬🖤💛#SkoBuffs
— Mr. JHow (@JHowKnowsHow) March 24, 2024
The Buffs put up a really solid fight today. A few less missed shots and we could’ve taken it. Either way what a fantastic game of basketball, proud of my Buffs!!
— KeefeyBeats - "Dreams Tonight" OUT NOW (@KeefeyBeats) March 24, 2024
Now, most CU Buffs fans have turned their attention to the women’s basketball team who is in the fourth quarter of a battle with Kansas State in the NCAA Tournament.
The Buffs put up a good fight in the second half but fall short to advancing.
— Bridget (@SybieMH) March 24, 2024
Now switching my channel over to cheering on the other Buffs team! #MarchMadness
If the women can advance to the Sweet 16, then Colorado fans will have their day salvaged after a gutting loss on the men’s side.