Colorado’s men’s basketball program has locked in a 2026‑27 non‑conference schedule that pits the Buffaloes against some of the nation’s most formidable opponents, setting the stage for a season that could define the team’s trajectory under longtime coach Tad Boyle.
Opening the season
The slate opens on November 2 with a home contest against Abilene Christian, a matchup that will test the young roster early in the year.
Just a week later, the Buffaloes travel to San Diego to face San Diego State on November 7, before returning to face San Diego on November 10, completing a brief West Coast swing.
A road trip to Providence on November 14 continues the non‑conference slate, giving Colorado a chance to measure itself against a program with a strong recent record.
Thanksgiving and rivalry highlights
Thanksgiving week brings the team to Palm Desert for the Acrisure Series, where they will meet three opponents in a compact, high‑intensity tournament.
The in‑state rivalry with Colorado State resumes on December 5, a game that always carries extra significance for the fan base and the coaching staff.
Marquee non‑conference clash
Perhaps the most anticipated non‑conference test arrives on December 19, when the Buffaloes host Purdue, a Big Ten powerhouse, in a marquee showdown that will be broadcast nationally.
Big 12 schedule outlook
The remainder of the schedule includes an 18‑game Big 12 slate, with home‑and‑home series against Utah, Houston and Baylor, and road trips to Arizona, Kansas, Kansas State, Oklahoma State, TCU and UCF.
Roster composition
Roster‑wise, Colorado will rely on a blend of youth and experience; eleven of the fifteen players are underclassmen, including seven freshmen, while sophomore guards Jalin Holland, Josiah Sanders and Ian Inman are expected to lead the way.
Key returning players
Junior guard Barrington Hargress returns as the primary offensive option, and senior transfers Noah Feddersen from North Dakota State and Justin Neely from UNC Greensboro add frontcourt depth.
Coaching continuity
Coach Tad Boyle, now in his 17th season, enters the campaign with the most wins in program history, underscoring the stability and ambition that permeate the team.