Colorado’s women’s basketball program is set to kick off the 2026‑27 season with an ambitious overseas excursion, a ten‑day tour of Portugal scheduled from August 2 through August 11.
Under the guidance of head coach JR Payne, the Buffs will mark their third international outing in as many years, using the trip to forge chemistry among a roster that blends returning veterans with a wave of new transfers.
Exploring Lisbon, Sintra, Cascais and Porto
The itinerary weaves together historic neighborhoods and modern landmarks, from a Tuk‑Tuk ride through Lisbon’s bustling streets to a tour of the Estádio da Luz, home of Benfica, and a stop at the dramatic Boca do Inferno cliffs near Cascais.
During the stay the team will face two local Portuguese clubs in exhibition matches and run a youth coaching clinic in Porto, giving players a chance to test new tactics while giving back to the community.
Colorado closed out the 2025‑26 campaign with its 17th NCAA Tournament appearance, finishing sixth in the Big 12 with an 11‑7 conference record and a 22‑12 overall slate, a performance that underscores the program’s consistency.
The Buffs have bolstered the lineup with five incoming transfers and seven returning players, while freshmen Cail Jahnke and Lauren Harris arrive eager to make an impact.
Beyond the wins, the tour serves as a laboratory for cohesion, allowing the squad to bond on and off the court as they represent the state of Colorado on an international stage.
Fans can look forward to seeing how the new pieces click during the Portuguese leg, a prelude to what promises to be another competitive season for a program that has posted winning records in each of the past five years.