Reserves learning to live with reality for CU Buffs mens basketball

Published: Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at 10:14 pm

CU Buffs Bench Players Face Reality as Conference Play Looms

Boulder, CO - As the CU Buffs men's basketball team approaches the start of conference play, the reality of limited playing time is setting in for several players at the end of the bench. With a month of games completed and the team's rotation solidified, the freshman trio of Andrew Crawford, Ian Inman, and Tacko Ifaola are focusing on staying sharp despite a lack of consistent game action.

Head coach Tad Boyle has praised the players' dedication, noting their positive attitudes and consistent effort in practice. He emphasized the importance of remaining prepared, as injuries or other unforeseen circumstances could lead to opportunities. Boyle highlighted the long season ahead and the potential for these players to contribute later in their careers.

This season marks a stark contrast to the previous year, where injuries and performance issues led to 18 different starting lineups in 35 games. This year, the team has maintained the same starting five throughout its strong 8-1 start. The bench rotation has also been consistent, featuring a quartet of players.

Crawford, a redshirt freshman, has seen limited action, playing just under 10 minutes in three appearances. Inman has also experienced a decrease in playing time, while Ifaola has seen slightly more action. Boyle has indicated that Ifaola or Inman could be called upon as a tenth player, depending on the game's needs.

The players themselves are focused on staying ready and making a positive impact in practice. Crawford, a former standout, expressed his respect for the coaching staff's decisions and his commitment to continuous improvement.

BNN's Perspective:

While it's understandable that coaches prioritize established lineups, it's crucial to keep the entire roster engaged. Maintaining a positive attitude and providing opportunities for bench players to develop is essential for team morale and long-term success. The Buffs' coaching staff appears to be handling this situation well, emphasizing the importance of preparation and the potential for future contributions from these players.

Keywords: CU Buffs, men's basketball, bench players, Tad Boyle, Andrew Crawford, Ian Inman, Tacko Ifaola, rotation, conference play, playing time, practice, injuries, team morale, college basketball

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